At the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) World Diabetes Congress 2025 in Bangkok, type 5 diabetes – also known as malnutrition-related diabetes – was officially recognized as a distinct entity. This form of diabetes affects between 20 and 25 million people worldwide, mainly in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, where chronic malnutrition during childhood or adolescence remains common.
Unlike types 1 and 2, this diabetes is neither autoimmune, nor linked to overweight or insulin resistance. It reflects altered metabolic development due to prolonged deficiency of energy and essential micronutrients, which has a lasting effect on pancreatic function. This particular metabolic profile is marked by severe insulin deficiency, reduced hepatic glucose production, preserved muscular glucose uptake, little or no insulin resistance, and low visceral fat mass.
Until recently, this form of diabetes was often misclassified as type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and therefore poorly managed. Official recognition by the IDF marks a decisive turning point in the global approach to diabetes.
An international working group, co-led by Dr Meredith Hawkins (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York) and Prof Nihal Thomas (Christian Medical College, Vellore, India), has been mandated to develop formal diagnostic criteria, therapeutic guidelines, an international research registry and training modules for healthcare professionals.
As a reminder:
Type 1: autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells.
Type 2: insulin resistance and progressive decompensation.
Type 3: secondary forms (genetic, drug-induced, pancreatic).
Type 4: gestational diabetes.
Type 5: undernutrition diabetes, now defined by specific clinical, metabolic and social criteria.
What about MODY?
MODY diabetes (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young) is one of the genetic forms grouped under type 3. This hereditary, monogenic form of diabetes occurs at an early age, but without autoimmunity or obesity. It requires precise molecular diagnosis. This classification enables us to better adapt diagnosis and management to profiles that have hitherto been poorly understood
Official recognition by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has several aims:
Improve early detection of cases, which are often misdiagnosed today.
Adapt treatment protocols: this type of diabetes responds poorly to conventional oral antidiabetics.
Guide nutritional policies in the countries concerned, with a focus on vulnerable populations.
In practice: recognition of type 5 diabetes avoids confusion with type 2 diabetes in skinny, young patients who are often inaccessible to standard care.
Therapeutic approaches focus on progressive reconstitution of metabolic reserves, with particular attention paid to :
a protein-enriched diet,
a moderate reduction in fast carbohydrates,
correction of micro nutritional deficiencies (zinc, iron, B vitamins, etc.).
According to Dr. Meredith Hawkins (Albert Einstein College of Medicine):
“We now need to define a specific nutritional strategy for these patients, while respecting their social and economic context.”
An Atypical Form ofDiabetesAmong Individuals With Low BMI. Lontchi-Yimagou E, Dasgupta R, Anoop S, Kehlenbrink S, Koppaka S, Goyal A, Venkatesan P, Livingstone R, Ye K, Chapla A, Carey M, Jose A, Rebekah G, Wickramanayake A, Joseph M, Mathias P, Manavalan A, Kurian ME, Inbakumari M, Christina F, Stein D, Thomas N, Hawkins M. Diabetes Care. 2022 Jun 2;45(6):1428-1437. doi: 10.2337/dc21-1957.
Water is life’s most basic necessity yet; its role in health extends well beyond preventing mere thirst. Scientists now recognize the intricate ways hydration status influences core processes like blood sugar regulation. With metabolic conditions reaching epidemic scales globally, understanding water’s impact on glycemic control becomes pivotal.
In this blog, we analyze emerging science on water-glucose interactions and debunk common myths about it explaining mechanisms underpinning water’s assistance in blood sugar management.
Water’s Vital but Variable Role
Water constitutes over 60% of adult body weight with fluid balance crucial for homeostasis. But hydration needs and effects fluctuate significantly based on health state, climate and activities. Water may provide neutral, beneficial or even adverse effects on blood sugar markers depending on individual context.
This variability means definitive conclusions on water-glucose interactions require nuanced evidence-based evaluation. Any universal declarations on water’s impact could propagate as misguided myths lacking context.
Fact or Fiction? Common Water Beliefs for Blood Sugar
Let’s examine some recurring opinions on hydration and blood glucose using latest scientific benchmarks:
“Drinking more water always lowers blood sugar.”
Fiction. While helpful for most people as a zero-calorie beverage, excess water intake can adversely lower electrolyte levels in diabetics or those on SGLT-2 inhibitors, causing temporary hyperglycemia from medication side effects. Outcomes differ based on individual health conditions.
“Dehydration from low water intake reduces glycemia.”
Partly Fact. Studies confirm even mild dehydration increases blood glucose and HbA1c levels as hydration state influences glucose homeostasis. Though lowering glucose levels short term when acutely dehydrated, persistent fluid restriction and thirst triggers rebound high blood sugar from stress responses.
“Increasing water intake reverses insulin resistance.”
Fiction. No evidence proves higher water consumption alone can reverse cellular insulin signaling dysfunctions driving resistance over the long run. However, even mild persistent dehydration worsens insulin resistance. Adequate hydration helps but is not curative.
As we see, declarative statements on water’s universality in managing blood sugar prove overly simplistic. The truth lies somewhere in the middle, with contextual and personalized guidance needed. A balanced approach is often the answer.
Holistic Approach to Blood Sugar Management: Hydration, Diet, Exercise, and Pep2Dia®
Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being, particularly for those with diabetes or at risk of developing the condition. While there is no single solution to achieve optimal blood sugar control, a holistic approach that combines several key elements can be highly effective.
One of the most important factors in blood sugar management is staying properly hydrated. Drinking enough water helps to maintain the balance of fluids in the body, which is essential for various physiological processes, including glucose metabolism. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and more if you engage in physical activity or live in a hot climate.
In addition to hydration, eating a balanced diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. Focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, as well as refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which provide sustained energy and help to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Regular physical activity is another key component of a holistic approach to blood sugar management. Exercise helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which allows the body to use glucose more efficiently. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Finally, incorporating a natural supplement like Pep2Dia® into your routine can provide additional support for blood sugar management. Pep2Dia® is a bioactive peptide derived from milk protein that has been clinically shown to help reduce post-meal sugar peaks. By slowing down the absorption of glucose from the gut, Pep2Dia® helps to prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels after eating.
When combined, these four elements – hydration, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and Pep2Dia® supplementation – create a powerful, holistic approach to blood sugar management. By addressing the issue from multiple angles, individuals can optimize their glucose metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce their risk of developing diabetes and related complications.
While each component of this approach is important, it is the synergistic effect of all four elements working together that provides the greatest benefit. By staying hydrated, eating well, exercising regularly, and incorporating Pep2Dia® into their routine, individuals can take control of their blood sugar health and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Over time, poor diet and lifestyle factors can impair our body’s ability to regulate blood sugar properly. The resulting glucose spikes after carb-heavy meals paired with inadequate insulin trigger a cascade of health issues from stubborn body fat to diabetes down the road.
Rather than resort to synthetic drugs with side effects, nutrition science now provides smarter solutions that work with your body’s natural sugar balancing rhythms. Developed by global dairy ingredients innovator Ingredia, the novel bioactive peptide hydrolysate, Pep2Dia® is clinically demonstrated to help maintain healthy blood sugar fluctuations naturally.
In this article, we’ll explore the science and mechanism behind Pep2Dia’s® efficacy for glycemic support, revealing a breakthrough natural ingredient for one of today’s most pressing health challenges.
The Blood Sugar Balancing Act
Breaking down carbohydrate foods into usable sugar energy requires coordinated hormonal actions. Food digestion releases glucose sugar which triggers insulin secretion to transport energy into cells. Insulin acts as the key allowing glucose to move from blood into tissues to fuel activity.
Over time, the strain of these abnormal sugar and insulin surges leads to inflammatory damage of blood vessels plus organs and metabolic disorders. Early interventions that alleviate these glycemic fluctuations thus prevent downstream issues.
Pep2Dia®- A Multi-Target Peptide Complex
This is where Pep2Dia® comes in – a specialized whey peptide hydrolysate scientifically designed by Ingredia nutrition scientists to influence key regulators that manage healthy blood sugar rises after carb-rich meals. Consisting of several bioactive peptide fractions, Pep2Dia® employs two complementary mechanisms to smooth out glucose spikes gently and naturally, inhibition on alpha glucosidase and effects on GLP-1.
Slows Digestion of Carbs
Pep2Dia® firstly contains an amino acid sequence proven to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, the enzyme that breaks down starch and disaccharides into simple glucose to be absorbed. Temporarily decreasing alpha-glucosidase activity, Pep2Dia® slows digestion of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. This attenuates and prolongs post-meal glucose release into the bloodstream for steadier rises rather than sudden spikes that overwhelm.
Multiple randomized controlled trials verify Pep2Dia’s® efficacy in lowering postprandial glycemia via this mechanism without side effects.
This sets Pep2Dia® apart from single target options like basic alpha-glucosidase inhibitors as a multi-action peptide hydrolysate targeting the entire glucose metabolism cycle – from digestion to uptake and utilization for comprehensive support.
Ingredia: Pioneering Peptide Innovation
What enables game changing solutions like blood sugar optimizing Pep2Dia® is ingredient innovation leader Ingredia’s absolute commitment to science-led advancement in human nutrition.
As pioneers in bioactive dairy peptides, Ingredia combines its deep expertise in precision separation techniques with proprietary enzyme technologies to derive peptide complexes targeted to health priorities like blood sugar balance.
The Future of Blood Sugar Management
Thanks to globally validated solutions like Pep2Dia®, sustainable nutrition science can now smartly leverage food synergies that gently modulate and support, rather than interfere with, the incredible self-regulating capabilities inherent within our body.
By relying on evidence-based food derived supplements purposefully engineered through meticulous bioprocessing to influence intrinsic glycemic pathways, we herald food as medicine 2.0 – where clinically proven ingredients amplify dietary efforts to prevent rather than just manage modern health epidemics.
Pep2Dia’s® arrival thus signals a fundamental shift from prescription drug interventions downstream that often come with adverse effects towards gentle safeguards far upstream bolstering our body’s own capacity for balance as the first line of defense. This DNA marks the next era heralding a new generation of food inspired solutions backed by science that deliver efficacy for real people within ethical parameters.
Through breakthrough bioactives like Pep2Dia®, Ingredia uplifts dairy ingredients from simply nutritional to powerfully therapeutic – restoring metabolic equilibrium gently, daily and decisively so we stay healthy and nourished on our terms.
Blood sugar balance is foundational to metabolism, energy levels, body composition and even mood. When glucose regulation goes awry from unhealthy diets, sedentary living and simply aging, we face ballooning health issues from stubborn body fat to diabetes down the road.
To avoid reliance on synthetic drugs with side effects, nutrition science now spotlights smart natural solutions that gently promote our body’s innate capacity for equilibrium. One rising star class is AP dipeptides – highly specific protein molecules clinically proven to influence blood sugar modulating mechanisms for more stable, healthier glycemia day to day.
In this blog, we’ll examine research on AP dipeptides for blood sugar control and how global ingredient innovators like Ingredia are now delivering these bioactives in a supplemental form, Pep2Dia®, to mimic dietary therapies without radical diet changes.
The Blood Sugar Balancing Act
To utilize carbohydrates from foods for energy, the body must convert complex carbs into simple glucose sugars that move from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. The resulting rise in blood glucose triggers the pancreas to secrete insulin, allowing sugar to exit blood and enter cells. Insulin acts as the key unlocking cells to receive glucose from blood and store as glycogen or use for energy.
However, modern high-carb diets lead to oversupply of glucose entering blood quickly after meals. Meanwhile, mounting insulin resistance blunts sensitivity signals. This strains the balancing act between glucose rises and insulin response. Over years, the recurring glucose spikes and sustained high blood sugar levels lead to inflammatory damage of arteries and organs.
Catching blood sugar dysregulation early and alleviating these abnormal sugar swings can prevent full-blown metabolic disease. This is where AP peptides enter the picture.
AP Dipeptides – Precision Blood Sugar Improvers
AP dipeptides refer to very specific amino acid pairs clinically shown to have glycemia regulating effects in humans. By fine tuning digestion, through alpha glucosidase inhibition, AP dipeptides can gently nudge blood sugar levels into healthier ranges without medication side effects.
Research on AP dipeptides prove significant glycemic regulating efficacy in people with higher glycemia risk.
When a person uses Pep2Dia® supplementation before eating a meal with carbohydrates, the AP dipeptide works to inhibit a part of carbohydrate from being absorbed. In doing so, it prevents a glucose spike.
Through precise mechanisms, these dipeptides thus promote healthy glucose digestion, insulin response and sugar clearance from blood into muscles for more stable glycemia after meals.
Ingredia – Pioneering AP Dipeptide Production
However, clinical efficacy requires highly specific AP dipeptide fractions produced consistently to exacting standards. This is achieved by global ingredient pioneer Ingredia.
As leaders in bioactive peptide science across sports, health and nutrition sectors, Ingredia combines proprietary separation technology, precision enzymatic bioprocessing and stringent QA protocols to manufacture Pep2Dia®, a whey protein hydrolysate containing a certain amount of AP dipeptide.
Ingredia enables supplement formulators to integrate AP dipeptide complexes thanks to its product, Pep2Dia® with both high quality and confidence.
The Future of Blood Sugar Management
As the validation, production and applications of evidence-backed AP dipeptides scale rapidly, we approach an inflection point for preventative blood sugar health.
Beyond synthetic downstream drugs with adverse effects, sustainable nutrition science now intelligently activates the body’s intrinsic capacity for glycemic regulation through precise food-inspired compounds refined to clinical standards.
Thanks to global production leaders like Ingredia enabling access to nutraceutical grade AP dipeptides backed by science, consumers worldwide now activate protective dietary therapies scientifically calibrated for real life convenience and efficacy – paving the way for sustainable blood sugar solutions.
With chronic metabolic disorders reaching urgent criticality, highly specific bioactive peptide complexes like AP dipeptides usher in the new frontier of preventative nutrition. Backed by unrelenting science confirming gentle efficacy and safety for blood sugar improvement in humans, specialty AP dipeptides by Ingredia deliver food inspired solutions to a crisis needing answers now, not someday.
In recent years, a fascinating trend has emerged: athletes and influencers are using glucometers to monitor their blood sugar levels. These devices, typically associated with diabetes management, are now being leveraged by those looking to gain deeper insights into their health and performance. But what drives this interest, and what benefits can be gained from tracking blood glucose levels?
Why Athletes and Influencers Track Blood Sugar
The practice of tracking blood sugar is part of the broader quantified-self movement, where individuals seek to understand their bodies through data. Athletes and influencers, in particular, are keen to optimize their performance and well-being. By monitoring glucose levels, they can identify how their bodies respond to different foods, exercises, and stressors, ultimately making more informed decisions about their health.
Benefits of Blood Sugar Monitoring
Enhanced Performance
For athletes, understanding glucose fluctuations can be a game-changer. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) provide real-time data that can help fine-tune training regimens and recovery processes. By knowing when their blood sugar levels are optimal, athletes can plan their workouts to maximize performance and avoid energy crashes.
Better Nutrition Choices
Blood sugar monitoring offers valuable insights into how different foods affect glucose levels. Athletes and influencers can use this information to make better dietary choices, tailoring their nutrition to support their goals. For example, they might avoid foods that cause significant spikes in blood sugar, opting instead for those that provide sustained energy. Or they may choose to take a supplement that supports blood sugar management, such as one containing Pep2Dia®. When taken prior to a meal, this ingredient has been shown to reduce blood sugar spikes after the meal.
Health Optimization
Beyond performance and nutrition, tracking blood sugar can contribute to overall health. It can help identify stress responses, improve energy levels, and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. By understanding their body’s responses, individuals can make lifestyle adjustments that promote long-term well-being.
Real-Life Examples
Many athletes and influencers have shared their positive experiences with CGMs. For instance, Tabb Firchau, an entrepreneur and avid self-tracker, uses a CGM to understand why some days he feels fantastic and others he doesn’t. By tracking his glucose levels, he can see the impact of his dietary choices and adjust accordingly. Similarly, athletes have reported significant improvements in their performance and recovery by using CGMs to guide their training and nutrition strategies.
The Science Behind Blood Sugar Monitoring
Blood sugar levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, influenced by factors like diet, exercise, and stress. For diabetics, these fluctuations can be life-threatening, which is why CGMs were initially developed. However, even for non-diabetics, understanding these patterns can be incredibly beneficial. The pancreas plays a crucial role by releasing insulin to regulate blood sugar, but various factors can affect its efficiency. CGMs provide a continuous stream of data, allowing users to see how their body responds in real-time.
Practical Applications for Non-Diabetic Users
While CGMs were designed for diabetics, their applications for non-diabetic users are growing. These devices can help anyone interested in optimizing their health, from athletes aiming to improve their performance to individuals seeking better energy levels and overall wellness. Though there is currently no research proving health improvements for non-diabetic users, anecdotal evidence suggests significant benefits.
Choosing the Right Glucometer
If you’re considering using a CGM, it’s essential to choose the right device. Factors to consider include cost, ease of use, data accuracy, and compatibility with other health tracking tools. While CGMs can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance for non-diabetic users, many find the investment worthwhile for the insights gained.
Tracking blood sugar levels with a glucometer can offer numerous benefits for athletes, influencers, and health enthusiasts. From optimizing performance to making better dietary choices and enhancing overall health, the insights provided by CGMs are invaluable. As this trend continues to grow, more people are likely to discover the empowering potential of understanding their body’s glucose levels. However, anyone considering using a CGM should consult with their health care professional, as atypical eating disorders could develop.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries, PCOS can lead to various health issues, including insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. As women age and transition into menopause, the interplay between PCOS and glycemic dysregulation becomes increasingly significant, affecting overall health and quality of life.
Understanding PCOS and Its Long-term Effects
PCOS affects approximately 4% to 21% of women, depending on diagnostic criteria and population studied. Common symptoms include menstrual dysfunction, infertility, and signs of androgen excess such as hirsutism and acne. Long-term health risks include obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mood disorders. Despite the amelioration of some symptoms with age, the long-term impact of PCOS on health remains a concern, particularly regarding glycemic regulation during menopause.
Menopause and Glycemic Dysregulation
Menopause brings about significant hormonal changes that can impact blood sugar regulation. The decline in estrogen levels is associated with increased insulin resistance and changes in fat distribution, often leading to abdominal obesity. These factors collectively heighten the risk of glycemic dysregulation, making it crucial for women with PCOS to be vigilant about their metabolic health as they approach menopause.
Symptoms of Glycemic Dysregulation in Women with PCOS
Symptoms of glycemic dysregulation can be subtle and often overlap with other menopausal symptoms. Common indicators include increased hunger or thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, and darkening of the skin in areas such as the groin, armpits, or neck. Women with PCOS may experience these symptoms more intensely due to their preexisting insulin resistance.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of glycemic dysregulation in women with PCOS. These include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, and a family history of diabetes. Additionally, ethnic background plays a role, with women of Hispanic, African American, or Native American descent being at higher risk compared to their White or Asian counterparts.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing glycemic dysregulation involves blood tests such as fasting glucose levels, glucose tolerance tests, and hemoglobin A1C tests. Early detection is key to preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes. Management strategies include lifestyle modifications like a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and sufficient sleep. In some cases, medications such as metformin may be prescribed to help control blood sugar levels.
Preventive Measures and Healthy Practices
Preventive measures are vital for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and overall well-being. Adopting a diet rich in lean proteins, high-fiber grains, vegetables, and fruits, along with regular physical activity, can significantly improve insulin sensitivity. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, managing stress, and ensuring regular medical check-ups are also important for preventive care. Certain supplements may help too in managing blood sugar and reducing stress. For example products that contain Lactium® have been shown to help manage stress levels. In addition, supplements that include Pep2Dia® help to reduce blood sugar after a meal.
Understanding the link between PCOS and glycemic dysregulation at menopause is essential for proactive health management. Women with PCOS should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to monitor and manage their blood sugar levels effectively. By adopting healthy lifestyle practices and seeking medical advice, they can mitigate the impact of glycemic dysregulation and enjoy a healthier, more balanced life during and after menopause.
This website is intended to provide information about Ingredia’s bioactive ingredients to food supplement professionals and health professionals and is not designed for the general public.
As our ingredients are marketed in a large number of countries, it is the responsibility of each of our customers to ensure that the use of the ingredient and any claim made in the labeling or advertising of the ingredient comply with the applicable rules and regulations.
