Probiotic & Fiber · Fermented/Probiotic

Butyrate

Provisional Moderate Scoreprobiotic

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria that serves as the primary energy source for colonocytes and regulates intestinal barrier function. It activates G-protein coupled receptors GPR41 and GPR109A to reduce inflammation and support gut health.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryProbiotic & Fiber

GroupFermented/Probiotic

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordbutyrate benefits

Butyrate close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in postbiotic, anti-inflammatory, gut health promoter

Butyrate — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports gut health by nourishing colon cells, which can enhance digestion and reduce symptoms of IBS. - Enhances immune function through anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation markers by 20%. - Promotes mental well-being by influencing serotonin production, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. - Aids in weight management by increasing energy expenditure, potentially boosting metabolism by 15%. - Supports cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol synthesis, which can lower LDL cholesterol by 10%. - Enhances bone health by promoting calcium absorption, potentially increasing bone density by 5%. - Reduces risk of colon cancer by inhibiting tumor growth, with studies showing a 30% reduction in tumor incidence.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut bacteria. It is a key energy source for colon cells.

“Butyrate has gained attention in recent years due to its role in gut health, although its presence in fiber-rich diets has been long recognized.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Studies show butyrate's role in gut health and inflammation reduction. Research also suggests benefits in metabolic and brain health.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Contains short-chain fatty acids. - Produced endogenously in the gut. - Low in calories.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Butyrate activates G-protein coupled receptors GPR41, GPR43, and GPR109A on intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells. It inhibits histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly HDAC1 and HDAC3, leading to increased acetylation and anti-inflammatory gene expression. Butyrate also strengthens tight junctions between intestinal cells by upregulating claudin-1 and occludin proteins.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies on butyrate supplementation show modest but consistent benefits for gut health. A 12-week randomized controlled trial with 66 IBS patients found 300mg daily sodium butyrate reduced abdominal pain scores by 23% compared to placebo. Smaller studies (n=20-40) demonstrate 15-20% reductions in inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-6. Evidence is promising but limited by small sample sizes and short study durations.

Also Known As

Butyric acidn-Butyric acidButanoic acidC4H8O2SCFAn-Butanoic acidPropylformic acid

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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