Oil & Fat · Other

Butyric Acid (C4)

Provisional Moderate Scorelipid

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

Butyric acid (C4) is a short-chain fatty acid produced by beneficial gut bacteria that serves as the primary fuel source for colonocytes. It activates G-protein coupled receptors GPR41 and GPR109A to reduce inflammation and strengthen intestinal barrier function.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryOil & Fat

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordbutyric acid benefits

Butyric Acid close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in anti-inflammatory, gut barrier-supportive, short-chain fatty acid donor

Butyric Acid (C4) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports gut health by nourishing colon cells, promoting a healthy digestive tract. This can lead to improved nutrient absorption and regularity. - May reduce inflammation in the gut by inhibiting inflammatory pathways, which can alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases. - Supports metabolic health by enhancing insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. - Enhances mental health by producing short-chain fatty acids that influence neurotransmitter production, potentially improving mood and cognitive function. - Supports weight management by promoting satiety, leading to reduced calorie intake. - May improve liver health by aiding in the detoxification process, promoting overall liver function. - Supports immune function by maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall immune health.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Butyric Acid, or C4, is a short-chain fatty acid found in butter and other dairy products. It is produced through bacterial fermentation in the gut.

“Butyric acid has been recognized for its gut health benefits, with traditional diets rich in fermented foods.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Research, including in vitro and animal studies, supports its role in gut health and inflammation. Human studies are ongoing.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

- Contains 4 carbon atoms in its chain. - Naturally produced in the gut by fermentation. - Found in small amounts in butter and cheese.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Butyric acid binds to G-protein coupled receptors GPR41, GPR43, and GPR109A on intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells. It inhibits histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes, promoting anti-inflammatory gene expression and T-regulatory cell differentiation. Additionally, it serves as the primary energy substrate for colonocytes through beta-oxidation pathways.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies on butyric acid supplementation are limited, with most evidence derived from observational studies measuring fecal butyrate levels. Small trials (n=20-50) using sodium butyrate enemas in ulcerative colitis patients showed modest improvements in inflammation markers. Animal studies demonstrate stronger evidence for metabolic benefits, but human clinical data remains preliminary. Most research focuses on butyrate-producing probiotics rather than direct supplementation.

Also Known As

Butanoic acidC4 fatty acidSCFAn-Butyric acidButyrateShort-chain fatty acid C4:04-carbon fatty 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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