THE SEMI-COMPLETE USER'S GUIDE TO...THE PANCREAS

For a small, blow-dryer-shaped organ deep in the abdomen, the pancreas has a lot of power. Here's how to keep it happy so you stay healthy.

- KEVIN DUPZYK

THE PANCREAS PRIMER

WHAT IT DOES

IT'S ALMOST like two organs wrapped in one. First, it makes hormones that regulate blood sugar, preventing diabetes and its complications, like fatigue and ED. Second, it helps digest food. When that goes wrong, you may lose weight and have bathroom issues.

WHAT IT LIKES

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIETS: For people with risk factors for pancreatic issues (family history, alcohol overuse), an eating plan featuring whole foods (like a Mediterranean-style diet) is beneficial.

EXERCISE: Physical activity keeps body fat in check, which helps out your pancreas by working against diabetes. It aids your immune system and may help it avert cancers like pancreatic cancer.

WHAT IT DOESN'T LIKE

SMOKING: Cigarettes are harmful because they can cause inflammation and cellular DNA damage that affect the pancreas. Cigars and weed probably are, too, but there's less data.

DRINKING: Alcohol is a toxin to the pancreas and injures it over time.

HOW TO TELL IF SOMETHING'S OFF