Beware, the pancreas is a 'nasty, unforgiving organ'

Illustration of human pancreas with gallbladder, duodenum and blood vessels. [iStockphoto]

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas which is a large organ at the back of the stomach next to the small intestines.

 It releases enzymes that help digest food and also regulates how the body manages glucose by releasing insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream.