What substance does the pancreas produce to raise the pH in the intestine?

The pancreas produces sodium bicarbonate to raise the pH in the intestine. When food enters the small intestine from the stomach, it is initially highly acidic due to the presence of gastric juices that contain hydrochloric acid. For the enzymes in the intestine to function effectively, particularly those involved in digestion, the environment must be neutral or slightly alkaline.

Sodium bicarbonate acts as a buffer, neutralizing the acidity of the gastric juices. This process is crucial for creating an optimal pH, allowing digestive enzymes to work properly and facilitating better nutrient absorption. The production and secretion of sodium bicarbonate by the pancreas underscore its essential role in digestive health and maintaining the appropriate conditions in the intestine.

The other options listed either decrease pH or do not play a role in adjusting the pH in the intestine, making them unsuitable choices in this context.