Contents
- 8 Best Butyrate Supplements
- How Does Butyrate Support Digestive Health And Gut Function?
- Potential Side Effects Of Butyrate Supplements
- How To Choose The Best Butyrate Supplement
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that could help support gut health and digestion. However, not getting enough fiber from your diet may lead to lower butyrate levels, which may trigger digestive problems, increased inflammation, and weak immunity.
Supplementing with butyrate might help tackle such issues. Butyrate supplements may help nourish the cells in your colon, which might improve digestion and support a healthy gut lining. They might also help lower the risk of developing conditions like IBS and leaky gut.
Even though butyrate supplements offer potential benefits, the results may vary depending on a person’s gut health. The effectiveness of butyrate supplements may also depend on the type of butyrate used.
In this article, we cover the 8 best butyrate supplements and explain their working mechanism, benefits, and possible drawbacks. The article will also guide you on what factors to look for before picking a butyrate supplement.
8 Best Butyrate Supplements
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BodyBio Calcium/Magnesium Butyrate
BodyBio Calcium/Magnesium Butyrate claims to support digestion and help with maintaining gut lining integrity, which could aid in promoting your metabolic health. Each serving (2 capsules) of BodyBio Calcium/Magnesium Butyrate features 80 mg of magnesium, 160 mg of calcium, and 1.2 g of butyric acid. It also includes medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), which might help with better absorption. It comes in two bottle sizes, with options of 100 or 250 capsules per container. Taking BodyBio Calcium/Magnesium Butyrate could also help lower gut inflammation, boost immunity, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support metabolism. As per the makers, BodyBio Calcium/Magnesium Butyrate is vegan, non-GMO, and does not contain glyphosate, making it compatible with various dietary needs. It also does not comprise any fillers or additives, which may indicate its purity and effectiveness.
However, you may experience side effects like abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating, nausea, or restlessness. It may occur due to reactions to butyrate in its formulation.
Pros
- It may support gut health, immunity, and metabolic health.
- Calcium and magnesium may enhance butyrate absorption.
- It comes in an easy-to-take capsule format.
- Offers non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free formula.
- The formula is free from fillers or artificial additives.
- Comes in 100 and 250 capsule serving sizes.
- It offers a 60-day refund policy on orders.
Cons
- Capsules may have an unpleasant butyrate odor.
- You may experience side effects like bloating, loose stools, or dizziness.
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Return Healthy Double Butyrate Supplement
Return Healthy Double Butyrate claims to provide two butyrate forms, including calcium butyrate and tributyrin. Calcium butyrate might improve gut health by strengthening the gut barrier. Tributyrin may also improve gut barrier function and promote a balanced microbiome, which could reduce intestinal inflammation.
As per the official site, each serving (4 capsules) of Return Healthy Double Butyrate provides 200mg of tributyrin (as Butyragen) and 2g of calcium butyrate. It also features 80mg of shilajit extract and 80mg of aloe vera 200:1. It also contains bacillus coagulans, lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, and saccharomyces boulardi probiotic strains that may further improve gut health.
Return Healthy Double Butyrate may boost the immune system and support the connection between the gut and brain. Such effects might help minimize tiredness and mental fog. It also claims to positively influence how genes work, a process known as epigenetic regulation.
Return Healthy Double Butyrate comprises vegan and non-GMO ingredients. The capsules contain low-odor butyrate, which could make it more convenient to use daily. However, butyrate affects gut bacteria, which may trigger temporary changes in bowel movements. The presence of calcium in Return Healthy Double Butyrate may trigger constipation if you do not follow the maker’s suggested dosage. However, this effect could be noticed in some people and not everyone.
Pros
- Offers calcium butyrate and tributyrin for gut health support.
- It claims to aid in epigenetic regulation.
- It provides a low-odor butyrate formula.
- Features shilajit and aloe vera, which may offer gut and immune benefits.
- Uses vegan and non-GMO ingredients.
- It may support the gut-brain axis to help reduce brain fog.
- Available in a 120-capsule bottle, providing a one-month supply.
Cons
- Requires taking an inconvenient four capsules per serving dose.
- Priced higher than similar butyrate supplements.
- Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
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ProButyrate
As per the official site, ProButyrate contains butyric acid, which is known as a short-chain fatty acid that may support digestion. ProButyrate uses a special delivery method called CyLoc® technology. It provides 60 capsules in a single container, with a daily dose of 2 capsules.
Each serving of ProButyrate contains 600 mg of a butyric acid complex. Butyric acid might help support the health of the intestinal lining, which may improve gut function. Butyric acid might also help soothe gut inflammation, which may help minimize stomach pain or cramping.
The maker claims to use a CyLoc® technology that wraps each butyrate molecule in a dextrin fiber shell. The protective layer may help your body absorb butyric acid more effectively. It could also ensure that more of the active ingredient reaches your intestines, where it is most needed.
While ProButyrate is meant to support gut health, it may cause side effects like bloating, gas, or loose stools. People with sensitive digestive systems might also experience side effects like mild cramping or changes in bowel habits.
Pros
- Utilizes CyLoc® delivery system for better nutrient uptake.
- Provides 600 mg of butyric acid per serving.
- It might help maintain a healthy gut microbiome balance.
- It could help reduce gut inflammation.
- It may help ensure targeted release in the intestines.
- Uses butanoic acid instead of butyric salts.
Cons
- The large capsule size might be difficult to swallow.
- It may need refrigeration to maintain efficacy.
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Bestvite ButyraBoost (Tributyrin Complex)
As per the official site, each capsule of Bestvite’s ButyraBoost (Tributyrin Complex) contains 300 mg of ButyraGen®, a specialized tributyrin complex. It also includes rosemary extract, acacia fiber, guar fiber, and microcrystalline cellulose. These ingredients may help support a balanced digestive system.
Bestvite’s ButyraBoost features ButyraGen®, a patented prebiotic that may help your body produce butyrate directly in the colon. It might help strengthen the gut lining, aid digestion, and improve communication between the gut and other organs. A strong gut lining may help reduce irritation and enhance nutrient absorption.
The Bestvite’s ButyraBoost (Tributyrin Complex) formula is vegan-friendly, non-GMO, soy-free, and stearate-free. It is also manufactured in an NSF-certified and GMP-compliant lab facility in California, US. These certifications might help promise high-quality standards in every batch.
However, Bestvite’s ButyraBoost (Tributyrin Complex) may have some limitations. People with severely imbalanced gut microbiome or conditions like dysbiosis may not get optimal levels of butyrate, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
Pros
- Contains 300mg of ButyraGen® (tributyrin complex) per capsule.
- It may support digestion by providing a source of butyrate.
- Made in the US in an NSF-certified and GMP-compliant facility.
- It could be suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
- It undergoes third-party testing by ISO-certified testing labs.
- It may help support bowel regularity.
Cons
- Lack of extensive clinical research on tributyrin.
- You may experience side effects like bloating, nausea, or diarrhea.
- It may trigger headaches, especially in new users.
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LongJuvity Sodium Butyrate Supplement
LongJuvity Sodium Butyrate supplement has 600mg of sodium butyrate per 2 capsules, with 480mg coming from butyric acid. Butyric acid may help your body produce more mucus in the intestines, which is essential for protecting the gut lining and reducing irritation.
The butyric acid could also improve the absorption of fluids and electrolytes, helping to maintain hydration and vitality. It may also serve as an energy source for intestinal cells, which might support digestion and overall gut function.
LongJuvity Sodium Butyrate features micro-encapsulated extended-release granules. It is a special coating on the capsules, which may help ensure that the butyrate reaches your intestines without breaking down too early in your digestive tract.
As per the makers, the LongJuvity Sodium Butyrate supplement comprises clean ingredients that do not contain allergens like dairy, gluten, and GMOs. It also undergoes regular testing by independent third-party labs and may also show a Certificate of Analysis to verify the results.
However, the LongJuvity Sodium Butyrate supplement may have a slow onset of effects, as it features extended-release granules that may take time to work. The sodium content of butyrate may also cause potential side effects like high blood pressure, swelling, bloating, or muscle pain.
Pros
- Provides 480mg of butyric acid per serving.
- It may boost mucus production to reduce intestinal damage.
- Micro-encapsulated granules may ensure gradual butyrate delivery.
- It offers a dairy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO formula.
- It may improve fluid and electrolyte absorption.
- Comes with a 60-day refund policy on orders.
Cons
- The extended-release granules may not provide immediate relief.
- It might not be suitable for people with hypertension or kidney concerns.
- Sodium might lead to bloating or water retention.
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Quorinthiumax Tributyrin Supplement
Each 3-capsule serving of Quorinthiumax Tributyrin supplement provides 800 mg of tributyrin, 100 mg of a probiotic complex, 150 mg of prebiotic fiber XOS, and 50 mg each of ginger and curcumin extracts.
Quorinthiumax Tributyrin includes 10 billion CFU of probiotics, which could help optimize your gut microbiome balance. XOS (xylooligosaccharides) is a prebiotic fiber that may help nourish the beneficial gut bacteria, which could help minimize issues like bloating and diarrhea.
Ginger and curcumin (turmeric) extracts have natural anti-inflammatory effects that may support digestion and reduce stomach discomfort. Quorinthiumax Tributyrin comes in a liquid-filled capsule form, which is typically easy to swallow and might be gentle on your stomach.
Quorinthiumax Tributyrin also uses advanced microencapsulation technology to protect its ingredients and enhance absorption. It is also GMO-free, dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, potentially aligning it with various dietary needs.
Although the microencapsulation technology may help protect the ingredients from stomach acid, it may slow down how quickly tributyrin starts working in the body. Ginger and curcumin may sometimes trigger side effects like a stomach upset or acid reflux.
Pros
- Combines tributyrin, probiotics/prebiotics, and herbs to support gut health.
- Liquid-filled tributyrin capsules may be easier to digest.
- Uses microencapsulation technology to preserve its potency.
- Contains 10 billion CFU (as probiotics) to support digestion.
- Does not contain artificial fillers, allergens, and synthetic stabilizers.
- It offers a GMO-free and dairy-free formulation.
Cons
- Microencapsulation may delay the release of tributyrin.
- Ginger and curcumin extracts may cause heartburn.
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Designs for Health Tri-Butyrin Supreme
Developed by Designs for Health, Tri-Butyrin Supreme features CoreBiomeâ„¢, a specialized form of tributyrin. Each softgel contains 300 mg of tributyrin (as CoreBiomeâ„¢). It also includes other ingredients like black cumin seed oil and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
CoreBiomeâ„¢ refers to a short-chain fatty acid that may nourish the cells in your large intestine. It claims to help strengthen the gut lining, support regular bowel movements, and encourage a balanced gut microbiome. Better gut health may also contribute to stronger immunity.
Tri-Butyrin Supreme also contains black cumin seed oil and MCTs. Black cumin seed oil has antioxidant effects that may help promote digestion. MCTs are fats that your body may easily absorb, after which it may provide a quick energy source to fuel your body.
According to the official site, Tri-Butyrin Supreme has a soy-free, non-GMO, and gluten-free formula. However, Designs for Health Tri-Butyrin Supreme may trigger bloating, loose stools, or indigestion, especially if you have a sensitive digestive system.
Pros
- Each softgel provides 300mg of tributyrin for gut health support.
- It features CoreBiomeâ„¢, a patent-pending form of tributyrin.
- It may promote colon health and maintain intestinal flora.
- Contains a fusion of three butyrate molecules attached to glycerol.
- You just require to consume one softgel per day.
- It could help support proper gut permeability.
Cons
- You may experience a strong sulfur odor when taking it.
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
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Tributyrin-X
As per the official site, Tributyrin-X is a postbiotic, meaning it may support gut function by raising short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels in your body. It could control how fast food moves through your digestive system, which could make bowel movements more regular.
Each softgel of Tributyrin-X contains 500 mg of tributyrin, delivered through a RedoxOil-T system. The delivery method could help protect the tributyrin from stomach acid, ensuring it reaches your intestines where it is most effective.
The makers state that Tributyrin-X could help with gut issues such as bloating, leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gut dysbiosis by reducing inflammation, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, and strengthening your intestinal barrier. The manufacturers also claim that it supports immune system regulation, enhances metabolic health, and promotes overall digestive comfort.
However, one limitation of Tributyrin-X is that your body needs to digest fats properly for it to work well. Since tributyrin is a type of fat, people with gallbladder problems or trouble digesting fats may not absorb it fully.
Pros
- It might help reduce the risk of issues like a leaky gut.
- Contains liquid tributyrin, which may ensure high bioavailability.
- Each softgel offers 500 mg of tributyrin (as RedoxOil-T).
- It may support healthy histamine levels.
- Does not contain allergens like gluten, GMOs, or lactose.
- Offers a 60-day refund guarantee on orders.
Cons
- Requires consistent use for optimal results.
- Availability may be limited.
- The price point may be higher than similar tributyrin products.
How Does Butyrate Support Digestive Health And Gut Function?
Butyrate is a variant of short-chain fatty acid produced when gut bacteria break down fiber in your colon. It could help provide energy to the colonocyte cells that line your intestines, strengthening your gut lining and supporting digestion.
Your intestinal lining is made up of cells connected by tight junction proteins, which control what enters your bloodstream. Butyrate might improve the function of these proteins, reducing gaps in the gut lining. Such effects might help lower the risk of inflammation and digestive issues.
Butyrate may also influence immune cells and block the release of inflammatory molecules like TNF-α and IL-6. As excessive gut inflammation may increase the risk of conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, butyrate might help minimize such risks.
Butyrate also supports digestion by influencing gut movement. It may stimulate goblet cells to produce more mucus, which could help food move smoothly and protect the gut lining from irritation.
Potential Side Effects Of Butyrate Supplements
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Digestive Discomfort
Butyrate supplements might cause bloating, gas, or mild stomach cramps, especially if you take them on an empty stomach. It may happen because butyrate increases gut fermentation, which might temporarily alter gas production in your intestines.
People with sensitive digestion or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are more susceptible to noticing such discomfort. The discomfort might also come from butyrate’s role in repairing the gut lining, which may initially trigger a reaction in the intestinal walls.
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Headaches Or Dizziness
Butyrate may influence brain chemistry by supporting neurotransmitter production, but some users may experience headaches or dizziness after taking it. It might occur as butyrate may help widen blood vessels, potentially causing temporary fluctuations in circulation.
If you’re prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you might feel lightheaded after taking it. Eating a balanced meal before butyrate supplementation and increasing water intake might help avoid such reactions.
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Unpleasant Body Odor
You might experience a noticeable change in body odor when taking butyrate supplements, particularly in sweat or breath. It might be due to butyrate’s metabolism in the liver, where it gets broken down into ketone-like compounds. If these compounds accumulate, they may produce a slightly sour or rancid scent.
Body odor may be more pronounced in people following a high-fat or ketogenic diet, as butyrate may amplify ketone production. Drinking more water and maintaining good personal hygiene might help minimize the odor.
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Increased Bowel Movements
Butyrate supplements might lead to frequent or looser stools, especially in the first few days of use. It may happen because butyrate stimulates colonic motility, meaning it could speed up the movement of waste through your intestines.
If you notice sudden urges to go to the bathroom, your body may be adjusting to butyrate’s effect on gut contractions and hydration balance.
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Mild Fatigue Or Brain Fog
While butyrate is known to support brain health, you might experience temporary fatigue or mental sluggishness during initial use. If your body is not used to using butyrate for energy, you might feel sluggish until your metabolism adjusts.
Brain fog may also result from butyrate’s influence on gut bacteria, which may temporarily shift microbiome activity. If your gut is adjusting, you may notice a short-term dip in focus.
How To Choose The Best Butyrate Supplement
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Form Of Butyrate
When choosing a butyrate supplement for your needs, it’s important to consider the form that best suits your preferences. Sodium butyrate might be suitable if you’re looking for quick support. This form is absorbed quickly by the body, which could help with gut health.
If you find that stronger forms like sodium butyrate are too harsh on your stomach, calcium butyrate could be a better fit for you. Calcium forms are gentler and may be easier on your digestive system, especially if you’re sensitive to other butyrate forms. It also has a milder odor, which might make it more pleasant to take.
Another option you might consider is magnesium butyrate, which pairs the benefits of both butyrate and magnesium. Magnesium might support muscle relaxation and function in addition to gut health.
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Bioavailability And Absorption
Before selecting a butyrate supplement, it’s important to think about its absorption and stability. Butyrate, in its free acid form, can be unstable. It may break down quickly and have a strong, unpleasant odor.
To avoid this, look for butyrate supplements that use buffered forms like calcium or magnesium butyrate. These forms are more stable, have a milder smell, and could be easier to take. You may also want to consider butyrate supplements with enteric coating.
An enteric coating may help protect the butyrate from stomach acid, allowing it to reach your intestines without being broken down. Such effects may improve bioavailability, which means your body may absorb and use the butyrate more effectively.
Butyrate supplements also come with liposomal delivery. These may wrap the butyrate in fat molecules, which could help improve butyrate absorption into your bloodstream. With liposomal delivery, butyrate may work faster and more effectively, giving you better results.
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Product Transparency And Quality
You should check if the butyrate supplement has undergone third-party testing before making a purchase decision. Third-party testing may help verify that the product contains the right amount of butyrate, as stated on the label. It also confirms that it is free from contaminants, such as harmful bacteria, toxins, or heavy metals.
Some butyrate supplements may include artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. These additives may sometimes cause digestive discomfort or other reactions. To avoid this, you should go for butyrate supplements that comprise natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
Look for butyrate products with a simple list of ingredients, such as just butyrate and its buffering agents like calcium or magnesium. Butyrate supplements that are free from unnecessary fillers or binders are less likely to cause unwanted side effects.
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Dosage And Potency
For choosing the right butyrate supplement for your needs, it’s important to consider dosage and potency. For general gut health, the typical butyrate dosage usually ranges from 150-300mg per day.
The potency of butyrate supplements refers to the amount of butyrate in each serving. Some supplements offer more potent formulas, meaning they contain higher concentrations of butyrate per dose. Be sure to check the label for the amount of butyrate (typically listed in milligrams) to ensure that it matches your needs and health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Butyrate Supplements Help With IBS Or IBD?
Butyrate supplements might help tackle some symptoms of gut conditions like IBS or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It has anti-inflammatory effects that may help repair the intestinal lining. - Are There Different Forms Of Butyrate Supplements?
Butyrate supplements come in various forms, such as sodium butyrate, potassium butyrate, and tributyrin. Some forms may be easier to absorb or have fewer side effects, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. - Can Butyrate Supplements Improve Immune Function?
Butyrate supplements might help support immune function by suppressing inflammation and promoting gut health. They could also help in the production of immune cells that may protect against harmful pathogens. - Are Butyrate Supplements Vegan-Friendly?
Some butyrate supplements are vegan-friendly, particularly those in plant-based capsules. However, you should crosscheck the product label to ensure it doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients, especially for forms like sodium butyrate or potassium butyrate.
Conclusion
Butyrate supplements might help improve your gut health, support digestion, and maintain bowel regularity. They are available in several forms, including powders, capsules, and tablets. You may choose one that may go well with your preferences.
While butyrate supplements provide potential benefits, they may also cause side effects like bloating, indigestion, flatulence, dizziness, or changes in bowel movements. To naturally support gut health and enhance the effects of butyrate, maintaining a fiber-rich diet is essential.
However, selecting the right butyrate supplement is just as important. You should consider factors like absorption rate, dosage, butyrate form, user reviews, and pricing before selecting a butyrate supplement for your needs.
Consuming foods like apples, berries, leafy greens, yogurt, beans, oats, and quinoa may help meet your daily fiber needs. Proper hydration could also support digestion and minimize issues like constipation or bloating.
Considering butyrate supplements in your routine may be useful, but maintaining a balanced diet and making healthy lifestyle choices may additionally help in maintaining optimal gut health.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
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