Meta Information
ID:butyrate-supplements
Name:Butyrate Supplements
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Sodium Butyrate
- Calcium Butyrate
- Magnesium Butyrate
- Tributyrin
- Butyric Acid
Active Compound
Butyrate
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
- local
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:food_supplement
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Supports gut barrier function, anti-inflammatory processes, and metabolic health for improved healthspan.
Typical Protocol
- Typical dosing ranges from 300 mg to 1500 mg daily, often divided into multiple doses.
- Butyrate is commonly taken with meals to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
40
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Monthly cost for common butyrate formulations; generally not insurance-covered.
Summary
Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid primarily produced by beneficial gut bacteria through the fermentation of dietary fiber. It serves as the main energy source for colonocytes, crucial for maintaining gut barrier integrity. Beyond local gut effects, butyrate exhibits systemic anti-inflammatory properties and influences glucose and lipid metabolism, contributing to overall metabolic health and potentially delaying age-related decline.
Purpose
Supports gut health, metabolic function, and inflammation modulation for healthspan.
Card Summary
Butyrate, a gut-derived fatty acid, supports colon health, reduces inflammation, and positively influences metabolism, contributing to overall healthspan.
Drug Class
null
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
5.5
Justification:
Supports gut integrity, metabolism, and inflammation, but not a primary systemic driver.
Evidence
Grade:
B
Score:
6
Justification:
Moderate human trials and robust mechanistic animal/in-vitro data available.
Safety
Score:
3
Justification:
Generally recognized as safe; minor gastrointestinal side effects possible.
Flags
- May cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as bloating or stomach discomfort.
- Monitor for potential interactions with medications affecting gut motility or nutrient absorption.
- Evidence for direct healthspan extension in humans from supplementation is still developing.
Verdict
Supports gut health; moderate impact on broader healthspan.