What is the primary function of the pancreas?

The primary function of the pancreas is to regulate blood sugar levels and aid in digestion, which is why the correct answer is focused on these two critical roles.

The pancreas functions as both an endocrine and exocrine gland. In its endocrine capacity, it produces hormones like insulin and glucagon that play a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels, while glucagon raises them, ensuring that the body maintains a stable level of sugar in the bloodstream essential for energy and metabolic processes.

In its exocrine role, the pancreas aids in digestion by producing digestive enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the food we consume. This dual function is vital for overall metabolic health, meaning the pancreas is crucial for both managing energy and supporting the digestive process.

Other options, while related to various bodily functions, do not accurately encapsulate the pancreas's primary roles. For instance, bile production is carried out by the liver, and blood filtration is primarily the function of the kidneys. The production of hormones is indeed a function of the pancreas, but without the context of blood sugar regulation and digestive support, it does not fully describe the organ's primary functions.