Question

Why is it important for the pancreas to release bicarbonate into the small intestine?

Answer 1

To neutralise the stomach acids and enable the enzymes to function better.

Explanation:

The digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas into the small intestine require a slightly alkaline pH for optimum functioning.

These enzymes are:
1. Proteases for protein breakdown.
2. Lipase for fat breakdown.
3. Amylase for carbohydrate breakdown.

Since the chyme (the fluid containing partly digested food and gastric acids coming from the stomach to the small intestine) is acidic, the release of bicarbonate and water by the pancreas helps neutralise this acidic chyme and create a slightly alkaline pH in which the pancreatic digestive enxymes can function.