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Butyrate (Sodium Butyrate / Tributyrin)

Category: Gut Health. Status: Dietary supplement.

A short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) that is the primary energy source for colonocytes. Produced by gut bacteria from fiber fermentation, supplemental butyrate supports intestinal barrier integrity, reduces inflammation, and promotes healthy gut microbiome composition.

How it works

Inhibits histone deacetylases (HDACs) for anti-inflammatory gene expression. Fuels colonocyte mitochondria via beta-oxidation. Strengthens tight junctions by upregulating claudin-1 and ZO-1. Activates GPR109A to suppress NF-κB.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: 110.09 Da (sodium butyrate)
  • Half-life: ~30-40 minutes (rapidly metabolized by colonocytes)
  • Bioavailability: Tributyrin: ~60-80% delivery to colon; sodium butyrate: variable
  • Storage: Room temperature. Sealed container (pungent odor if exposed).

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: 300-600 mg tributyrin or 500-2000 mg sodium butyrate
  • Frequency: 2-3x daily with meals
  • Duration: Ongoing
  • Route: Oral (enteric-coated or tributyrin pro-drug)

Reported benefits

  • Colonocyte energy support
  • Tight junction integrity
  • Reduced GI inflammation
  • Healthy microbiome support
  • Epigenetic modulation (HDAC inhibition)
  • Improved insulin sensitivity

Possible side effects

  • GI gas/bloating
  • Unpleasant taste/odor (sodium butyrate)
  • Loose stools initially
  • Rare: heartburn

Research

  • Butyrate and intestinal barrier function (2021): Supplemental butyrate increased transepithelial resistance by 45% and reduced endotoxin translocation in human gut models.
  • Tributyrin in ulcerative colitis (2022): 4-week tributyrin supplementation reduced fecal calprotectin by 60% and improved clinical remission rates in mild-moderate UC.

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.