Definition
Secretin is a hormone released by the small intestine. It primarily stimulates the pancreas to release bicarbonate, which neutralizes stomach acid. Secretin also inhibits gastric acid secretion. Think of secretin as the digestive system's acid neutralizer. It ensures the small intestine doesn't get burned by the stomach acid. Secretin helps create an optimal pH for digestive enzymes to work. It's a key regulator of the digestive environment.