Abstract: Whey protein and whey protein-derived bioactive peptides have multiple health benefits, and have become a research hotspot due to their effectiveness in attenuating hyperglycemia. Whey protein and whey protein-derived bioactive peptides can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM accounts for more than 90% of all cases of diabetes and is nowadays one of the top ten causes of death worldwide. Lifestyle intervention and medical nutritional therapy are currently the important management strategies for T2DM. Previous studies have shown that whey protein and whey protein-derived bioactive peptides can regulate blood glucose levels by improving insulin resistance, inhibiting α-glucosidase, and promoting incretin secretion. This paper reviews recent progress in understanding the role and mechanism of whey protein and whey protein-derived bioactive peptides in the regulation of blood glucose, and it summarizes recent studies on whey protein-derived dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory peptides, aiming to provide incentives for innovations in the milk industry.

Key words: diabetes mellitus, attenuation of hyperglycemia, whey protein, milk-derived bioactive peptides, dipeptidyl peptidase-IV