What is Pancreatin?
Pancreatin is a powdered, defatted and desiccated (dried) preparation of raw pancreas derived from hog. The pancreas secretes three digestive enzymes; protease which aids in the digestion of protein, amylase which digests carbohydrates (amylase is also found in our saliva which begins the breakdown of carbohydrates in the mouth) and lipase which aids in the digestion of fats. These three enzymes are important for healthy digestive function. Everyday the pancreas secretes about 2 1/2 pints of pancreatic juice packed with these enzymes into the small intestine to aid in proper breakdown and assimilation of the nutrients in our food.