Do digestive problems suggest a Pancreas problem?

[Margaret Diann]

A couple of days ago a doctor was asked to comment on Attorney General John Ashcroft's hospitalization for pancreatitis.

Then he said something that made me wonder about the gastro-intestinal problems reported by Gulf War vets: that the pancreas not only produces insulin (as we would expect) but it also produces the digestive enzymes.

Hmm, Maybe the pancreas has an effect on the digestive system, too?

(Now Mr. Ashcroft has had removal of his gall bladder)

Anyone know why these things?