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Explore social media, and you'll discover a plethora of enthusiastic posts revolving around the trending microbiome term: #butyrate.
From TikTok to Instagram and beyond, users and advertisers are touting this short-chain fatty acid, asserting that it contributes to a wide range of benefits extending from improved digestion to alleviating depression. Proponents are blending fiber-rich sauerkraut into soups, indulging in butter and kombucha, and opting for supplements to increase their body’s butyrate levels.
But what exactly is butyrate, and does it deliver on the promises made by its supporters? Or is it simply a trend without substantial benefits?
Early research, mainly derived from animal studies, indicates that the reality may fall somewhere in the middle. Renowned dietitian and gut microbiome expert Gail Cresci, PhD, RD, provides crucial insights on the topic of butyrate.
Butyrate is generated when “good” bacteria in your intestines assist in breaking down dietary fiber within your large intestine (colon). It is one of several short-chain fatty acids, categorized based on its chemical structure.
Dr. Cresci has dedicated over a decade to unraveling the benefits of butyrate. “It’s remarkable how many advantageous roles it plays within the body,” she emphasizes.
Butyrate (pronounced "byoo-ter-ate") is vital for the health of your digestive system, serving as the primary energy source for colon cells, meeting around 70% of their energy requirements. Furthermore, it may offer a variety of health advantages, including bolstering your immune system, reducing inflammation, and preventing diseases such as cancer.
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One form of butyrate is butyric (or butanoic) acid, a chemically altered variant sometimes incorporated into foods and supplements.
Additional types include:
Butter serves as a potent source of butyrate, though you would have to consume significantly more than recommended, considering its high saturated fat content can heighten cardiovascular risks. Instead, elevate your body’s butyrate levels by increasing daily fiber intake through plant-based foods.
Since your body does not metabolize fiber during digestion, it remains untouched for gut bacteria to process. Healthy gut bacteria convert soluble, fermentable fibers into butyrate.
Other sources comprise prebiotics and fiber-rich supplements.
Boosting butyrate levels can be achieved by eating fiber-rich foods. Excellent natural sources include a nutritious diet abundant in:
Now, let’s delve deeper into some of these categories.
Numerous fruits harbor fermentable fibers, including:
Fiber-rich vegetables and legumes include:
While these foods are delicious, moderation is key due to their high saturated fat and cholesterol content (ideally no more than 5% to 6% of your total daily calorie intake). This category consists of:
If you’re new to fiber intake, consider gradually integrating it into your diet and staying hydrated. You might experience some intestinal gas or bloating, but this should pass within a few days, as noted by Dr. Cresci.
“If you consume a lot of fiber without adequate hydration, you might face significant constipation,” she states. “Check the color of your urine; it should stay light yellow throughout the day, indicating proper hydration.”
Certain supplements may promote butyrate production, yet consulting with your healthcare provider prior to commencement is crucial. Most supplements incorporate butyric acid and various salts, but their effectiveness remains unproven.
“The optimal approach to acquiring butyrate is through consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in soluble fermentable fibers,” Dr. Cresci advises. “Nourish your body, and it will produce butyrate for you.”
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You might have lowered butyrate levels along with a heightened risk of gut infections or inflammation if:
Initial studies indicate that butyrate can enhance gut health; however, further investigation is necessary to grasp its functions in humans and whether it has other benefits. Butyrate might promote weight loss, stabilize blood sugar levels, maintain or improve gut function, and provide protection against or assist in treating various diseases.
Here are an array of benefits that butyrate is believed to provide:
Research suggests that butyrate-related supplements may alleviate the severity of disease-causing (pathogenic) bacterial infections by reducing inflammation, potentially avoiding life-threatening situations such as sepsis.
Additionally, researchers have associated low butyrate levels with an escalated risk for inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal (colon) cancer.
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Butyrate helps strengthen the gut barrier, preventing harmful bacteria and microbes from entering your bloodstream. Sodium butyrate supplements might assist those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and Crohn's disease.
In one particular study, 66 adults diagnosed with IBS who incorporated sodium butyrate into their daily routine reported less abdominal pain. In another evaluation, 9 out of 13 participants with Crohn's disease noted symptom improvements after consistently consuming butyric acid for eight weeks.
Additional research indicates that a fiber-rich diet, which encourages the production of butyrate, could help reduce your colon cancer risk.
A laboratory study involving human cancer cell lines established that sodium butyrate could inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells and induce cancer cell death (apoptosis). It has also been recognized for reducing harm stemming from cancer treatments or chemotherapy.
Individuals suffering from Type 2 diabetes frequently contend with insulin resistance and obesity. Due to the role of butyrate in producing gut hormones that regulate blood sugar levels, it may alleviate these symptoms. Some studies have revealed a potential connection between butyrate production and improved insulin sensitivity.
Foods and supplements that favor butyrate have potential benefits for brain health. Research shows that butyrate can offer protection to your brain while enhancing its adaptive abilities (plasticity).
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Early findings suggest it may play an important role in preventing or managing stroke, depression, and other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
Certain studies indicate that butyrate could provide protective benefits against prevalent cardiovascular diseases. Issues related to the heart and blood vessels increase your susceptibility to:
The benefits of butyrate even extend to your sleep quality. Recent evidence suggests that gut bacteria send signals that promote restful sleep.
A study reported that rodents administered butyrate exhibited significant increases in non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep lasting up to four hours post-treatment. NREM stages are crucial for both physical and mental well-being.
The precise butyrate intake requirements remain unknown. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) suggests a daily dietary fiber intake of 25 grams for women and 35 grams for men, translating to approximately 28 grams within a 2,000-calorie daily diet. Your needs may vary based on personal calorie intake. This fiber intake should encompass both soluble (butyrate-producing) and insoluble fibers.
Further studies are needed to ascertain the safety of butyrate and the acceptable dosages. However, a few concerns are noteworthy:
For additional details on isobutyric acid manufacturer, please get in touch with us for expert advice.
In summary, more butyrate does not necessarily mean better health outcomes. As with all supplements, avoid seeking advice from social media influencers. Instead, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Updated on September 16,
Are you contemplating adding butyric acid supplements to your regimen? This potent molecule boasts numerous health advantages, notably supporting both gastrointestinal and neurological wellness.* When is it advisable to incorporate a butyric acid supplement? What are the top choices available? And are there any associated risks?
This article addresses these queries surrounding this versatile compound and explores the potential perks of adopting an advanced butyric acid supplement into your lifestyle. Use the links provided below to navigate to specific sections about butyric acid and its supplements.
Butyric acid, or butyrate, is classified as a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced in the large intestine when beneficial gut bacteria ferment dietary fiber. Butyric acid is also obtainable through plant oils, animal fats, and dietary supplements. This multifunctional molecule is recognized for its distinctive odor and broad spectrum of health benefits.*
The health advantages of butyric acid stem from the following:
Butyric acid can naturally be found in foods such as milk, aged cheeses (like parmesan), butter, cream, yogurt, and fermented soy products. Moreover, including plant items rich in dietary fibers is a great way to support the endogenous production of butyric acid through bacterial synthesis. A diet laden with legumes, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts assists the body in maintaining optimal butyric acid levels.*
So, why might you need a butyric acid supplement? It might be worth incorporating into your diet if:
Under such circumstances, butyric acid supplements may serve as a viable alternative (or enhancement) to a fiber-rich diet.*
Standard butyrate supplementation typically involves administering butyrate mineral salts or utilizing sodium butyrate enemas. However, sodium butyrate emits a strong, unpleasant odor upon contact with moisture, rendering it hard to consume orally. On the other hand, sodium butyrate enemas are not commonly favored compared to oral supplements due to the requirement of rectal administration under medical supervision.*
When selecting a butyric acid supplement, keep in mind that not all oral options are formulated the same. The following table compares the palatability and absorption characteristics of raw butyric acid and butyric acid supplements.*
Comparison: Raw Butyric Acid Against Butyric Acid Supplements
Raw Butyric Acid
Butyric Acid Supplements
Palatability
Its intense odor and harsh taste make it difficult to ingest.
Advanced supplement formulations ensure butyrate is easy to consume.
Absorption
Quickly absorbed in the upper intestinal tract and discarded from the body.
Encapsulated butyrate supplements facilitate targeted delivery of butyric acid for enhanced absorption.*
The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in the functionality of multiple organs. Research has demonstrated that butyric acid supplements can elevate glutathione levels, consequently reducing oxidative stress in the gastrointestinal system and other organs5.*
Besides influencing intestinal health and oxidative stress, the gut microbiome has been connected to cognitive modulation through the “gut-brain axis,” which can potentially regulate behavior, learning, and memory6.*
The subsequent table elucidates how butyric acid supplementation supports gastrointestinal and neurological health.*
Benefits of Butyric Acid Supplements
Gastrointestinal System:
Butyric acid's presence in the gut inhibits the growth of pathogenic (harmful) bacteria, which detrimentally affect gut health and functionality7.* Butyric acid supplementation fosters gastrointestinal health via:
Neurological System:
Butyrate exhibits protective neuromodulatory effects and interacts with the gut-brain axis to support healthy cognitive functions12.*
The established roles of butyric acid in gastrointestinal and neurological health have spurred recent research exploring its previously overlooked properties and benefits. Below are prospective studies on butyric acid benefits:
The following represent common inquiries concerning butyric acid supplements:
The suggested intake of butyric acid in currently available dietary supplements ranges from 150-300 mg/day19.*
The safety profile of butyric acid is well-studied. No toxicity or adverse effects have been documented, and butyric acid supplements are generally well-accepted, even in substantial quantities.*
Always consult with your healthcare provider before integrating butyric acid supplements into your routine, particularly alongside prescription medications or other dietary supplements, as potential interactions may exist.
Key attributes of the most effective butyric acid supplements include:
ProButyrate® is an advanced formulation created by Tesseract Medical Research designed to optimize butyric acid’s absorption, bioavailability, and palatability. Tesseract utilizes proprietary CyLoc® and DexKey® nutrient delivery nanotechnology to ensure the integrity of butyric acid during its passage through the stomach, allowing for targeted delivery in the intestine. The encapsulated butyrate molecules enhance taste, making it easier for oral administration. By improving bioavailability, ProButyrate® can help unveil the health benefits of butyric acid for you.*
The allure of Tesseract supplements lies in their ability to enhance palatability, maximize absorption and bioavailability, and micro-dose nutrients within a singular, potent capsule. Browse our product range on our site and discover how they contribute to your gastrointestinal wellness. *
Citations:
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7Zhu, Li-Bin et al. World journal of clinical pediatrics vol. 10,5 84-92. 9 Sep. , doi:10./wjcp.v10.i5.84
8Canani, Roberto Berni et al. World journal of gastroenterology vol. 17,12 (): -28. doi:10./wjg.v17.i12.
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12Alpino GCÁ, Pereira-Sol GA, Dias MME, Aguiar AS, Peluzio MDCG. Beneficial effects of butyrate on brain functions: A view of epigenetic. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. ;64(12):-. doi:10./..
13Portincasa P, Bonfrate L, Vacca M, et al. Int J Mol Sci. ;23(3):. Published Jan 20. doi:10./ijms
14Brahe LK, Astrup A, Larsen LH. Obes Rev. ;14(12):950-959. doi:10./obr.
15Peng K, et al. Frontiers in Endocrinology vol. 14 . 24 Feb. , doi:10./fendo..
16Amiri P, et al. Frontiers in Pharmacology vol. 12 . 2 Feb. , doi:10./fphar..
17Aguilar EC, Leonel AJ, Teixeira LG, et al. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. ;24(6):606-613. doi:10./j.numecd..01.002
18Chen Z, et al. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology vol. 9 . 2 Nov. , doi:10./fcell..
19Peng K, et al. Butyrate and obesity: Current research status and future prospects. Frontiers in Endocrinology vol. 14 . 24 Feb. , doi:10./fendo..
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