Why do the pancreas enzymes need to be inactive until they reach th small intestine?

Pancreatic enzymes are produced in the pancreas in an inactive form called zymogens. This is because the pancreas is located near the stomach, and if the enzymes were active in the pancreas, they would begin to digest the pancreas itself.

When food enters the small intestine, it causes the release of hormones that travel to the pancreas. These hormones signal the pancreas to release pancreatic juices, which contain the active forms of the pancreatic enzymes. The enzymes then help to break down the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the food.

If the pancreatic enzymes were active in the pancreas, they would also begin to digest the other organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the liver and the stomach. This could lead to serious health problems.

By producing the pancreatic enzymes in an inactive form, the body is able to protect itself from the harmful effects of these enzymes.