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Sodium/Calcium Butyrate
Short-chain fatty acid postbiotic that feeds gut lining cells, reduces inflammation, and supports the gut-brain axis.
What the evidence says
Butyrate appears to help in 5 of 5 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2018–2026 with a typical study size of 66 participants.
Based on 47 studies · 7 meta-analyses · 15 RCTs · 37,452 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Butyrate has an evidence score of 8.5/10 — very strong evidence based on 47 indexed studies, including 8 meta-analyses. Short-chain fatty acid postbiotic that feeds gut lining cells, reduces inflammation, and supports the gut-brain axis.
The commonly studied dose of Butyrate is 300-600mg sodium/calcium butyrate, 2-3x daily. Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 1200mg, with a minimum effective dose near 300mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Butyrate is with meals. Take it with food. Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) that serves as the primary fuel source for colonocytes.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 39 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid naturally produced when gut bacteria ferment fiber. It's the primary fuel for colonocytes (colon cells), maintains gut barrier integrity, has anti-inflammatory effects, and supports the gut-brain axis. Supplemental butyrate bypasses the need for fiber fermentation, directly supporting gut health.
Primary energy source for colon cells
Epigenetic anti-inflammatory effects
Strengthens tight junctions
How Butyrate works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
300-600mg sodium/calcium butyrate, 2-3x daily
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Enteric-coated sodium or calcium butyrate | Recommended |
| 💊Tributyrin (butyrate precursor) | Alternative |
| 💊Sodium butyrate capsules | Alternative |
Enteric coating delivers more butyrate to the colon. Tributyrin may provide sustained release.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Taking with food reduces GI discomfort. Enteric coating helps delivery to colon.
Based on SCFA studies showing 44% butyrate increase with Mediterranean diet intervention and gut barrier integrity improvements. Conservative estimates due to limited direct butyrate supplementation RCTs. Effectiveness varies significantly by form - tributyrin forms may show higher bioavailability.
Improved gut barrier integrity
Lower intestinal inflammation
May be beneficial; work with gastroenterologist
Both affect similar pathways; may alter drug metabolism
May affect hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme activity
Tip: Take with food; use enteric-coated
Tip: Enteric coating reduces this
Probiotics produce butyrate; supplement ensures adequate levels
Comprehensive microbiome support
Both support gut lining
Enhanced gut healing
Butyrate supports colonocyte energy supply and tight junction integrity while lactoferrin modulates mucosal immunity; together they address multiple aspects of gut barrier function.
Enhanced gut barrier integrity and mucosal immune homeostasis
Butyrate is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI discomfort, sulfur-like odor. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Butyrate or related compounds.
L-Glutamine
Likely helpsPrimary fuel for intestinal and immune cells — becomes conditionally essential during stress, illness, or intense training.
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