Pep2Dia®: The first milk-based carb blocker for healthy blood sugar levels in pets

More than 60% of dogs and cats are overweight today. This not only increases the risk of premature death, but also creates a direct breeding ground for metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus. In the US, the number of cases of diabetes in cats increased 15-fold between 1970 and 1999. In Europe and Asia, this trend is steadily increasing. Once diabetes is diagnosed, management is intensive: insulin injections are necessary in 80% of animals, and 1 in 10 animals is even euthanized upon diagnosis. All the more reason to focus on prevention and support of blood sugar management, in a natural way. Pep2Dia® against elevated blood sugar levels in dogs and cats is a revolutionary product that contributes to combating obesity in our pets.

What is Pep2Dia® for high blood sugar levels?

Pep2Dia® against elevated blood sugar levels is a patented bioactive ingredient that is created from the hydrolysis of whey. The active ingredient is a dipeptide, consisting of alanine and proline, that targets the enzyme α-glucosidase in the small intestine. By inhibiting this enzyme, Pep2Dia® slows down the conversion of carbohydrates to glucose. This flattens out postprandial blood sugar peaks. What is unique about Pep2Dia® is that it also stimulates the production of GLP-1. This is an intestinal hormone that promotes insulin release and helps to naturally control appetite. This dual effect makes it much more than a classic carbohydrate blocker.

Clinical and preclinical substantiation: scientific certainty

In a small case study, three cats with blood glucose imbalances were treated with Pep2Dia® for 60 days. The cats were given a dose of 15 mg/kg twice daily, administered with their food. At the end of the study, fasting glucose levels decreased by 24%, without changes to other factors such as diet or activity. In addition, the animals’ body weight decreased by an average of 4.5%, with no adverse effects.

These results closely mirror previous human research, in which Pep2Dia® led to a 21% reduction in postprandial blood glucose levels, along with stabilization of HbA1c and improvement in insulin sensitivity. A reduction in waist circumference was also observed in some cases. These combined results suggest that Pep2Dia® is an effective solution for both acute blood glucose control and long-term metabolic management.

Easy to formulate in pet food and supplements

Pep2Dia® against high blood sugar levels is technologically very suitable for use in various types of animal feed. Thanks to its high water solubility and good rehydration, it is suitable for wet food, liquid supplements and powders. The product is resistant to heat treatments such as UHT, extrusion and baking, which makes it easier to use in chunks and chewys. The neutral taste and excellent digestibility make it possible to process Pep2Dia® without compromising the animal’s acceptance or appetite.

The recommended dosage is 15 mg per kilogram of body weight, twice a day, to be administered before or during meals. This dosage has been shown in practical studies to be effective and safe for both dogs and cats and can be easily integrated into daily routines.

Pep2Dia® for elevated blood sugar levels: Targeting modern animal health needs

For pet food brands looking to position themselves around metabolic wellness and weight management, Pep2Dia® offers a powerful, science-based solution. It is particularly interesting for formulations targeting seniors, indoor pets, sterilized or obese animals. Or even breeds at increased risk of diabetes, such as the Burmese cat, Labrador or Beagle.

In addition, Pep2Dia® has proven to be of great value in the management of cats with “transient diabetes”, a form of insulin resistance in which the animal is temporarily treated with insulin but may subsequently return to normal glucose metabolism. In these animals, Pep2Dia® can help to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the chance of relapse.

A natural and safe alternative

Pep2Dia® is regulated in Europe as feed grade “whey protein hydrolysate” and is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) in the US. The product is approved in major markets (EU, US, Brazil) and is supported by quality standards such as GMP+ FSA and NASC (US). Its clean-label positioning without additives makes it very suitable for brands that focus on transparency and natural ingredients.

In addition, Pep2Dia® has been shown to be of great value in the management of cats with “transient diabetes” – a form of insulin resistance in which the animal is temporarily treated with insulin but may subsequently return to normal glucose metabolism. In these animals, Pep2Dia® can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the chance of relapse.

Conclusion: Pep2Dia® as an innovation for the future of metabolic petcare

With Pep2Dia® against elevated blood sugar levels, pet food developers have a unique, natural and scientifically validated ingredient that not only supports blood sugar regulation, but also contributes to weight management and general well-being. It fits seamlessly with the expectations of modern consumers and offers an innovative answer to a rapidly growing health challenge in pets.

Curious about applications, samples or help with formulation? The team of  Nutriliq staat klaar om jouw merk te ondersteunen bij de ontwikkeling van producten met echte gezondheidsimpact.