Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Butyric acid (butyrate) is a short-chain fatty acid produced naturally in the colon through the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut microbiota. Its use in supporting or treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is primarily justified by scientific rationale rather than just traditional use. Several small clinical studies and preclinical investigations suggest that butyrate may have beneficial effects on gut health, particularly in modulating inflammation, enhancing intestinal barrier function, and improving motility—all relevant to IBS pathophysiology.

A few randomized controlled trials have evaluated oral sodium butyrate supplementation in IBS patients. These studies generally report modest improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, and stool frequency, particularly in people with IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) or mixed symptoms. The proposed mechanisms include butyrate's anti-inflammatory properties, its ability to promote mucosal healing, and its role in restoring normal gut motility through interaction with enteric neurons and smooth muscle.

However, the total number of high-quality clinical trials is limited, and most have small sample sizes and short durations. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews acknowledge the potential but highlight the need for larger, well-designed studies to confirm efficacy and determine optimal dosing regimens. Current clinical guidelines do not universally recommend butyrate supplementation for IBS due to insufficient robust evidence.

In summary, butyric acid is used to support IBS based on emerging scientific evidence, but the overall strength of this evidence is low to moderate (rated 2/5). More rigorous studies are warranted to establish its role in routine IBS management.

More about butyric acid
More about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Other ingredients used for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Other health conditions supported by butyric acid

Products containing butyric acid

Douglas Laboratories MCT/Butyrate Liquid with SunButyrate™