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Sodium Butyrate

Also known as: Sodium butyrate, NaB, Butyric acid sodium salt, Butyrate, Sodium Butyrate

Overview

Sodium butyrate (NaB) is the sodium salt of butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced by gut microbiota during the fermentation of dietary fiber. It is naturally found in butter, ghee, and fermented foods. As a supplement, it is used to support gut health, modulate inflammation, and potentially treat metabolic and neurological conditions. NaB is water-soluble and rapidly absorbed in the gut, acting as a histone deacetylase inhibitor. Research on sodium butyrate is moderately mature, with robust evidence from animal models and emerging human data. Studies suggest benefits for gut and metabolic health, while evidence for neurological or systemic effects is still developing. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses support its efficacy in animal models, with increasing numbers of human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring its potential.

Benefits

Sodium butyrate has demonstrated several potential benefits, primarily in animal models. In animal models of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), it significantly improved liver function, reduced liver triglycerides (SMD −1.23, 95% CI −1.62 to −0.84), and lowered total cholesterol (SMD −1.05, 95% CI −1.43 to −0.67). Secondary effects include modulating gut barrier function, reducing systemic inflammation, and potentially improving neurological outcomes in animal models of stroke (reduced neurological deficit scores by MD −2.86, 95% CI −4.12 to −1.60). Limited human data suggest potential benefits in metabolic syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. The clinical significance in humans remains uncertain, but animal studies show moderate to large effect sizes for metabolic and neurological endpoints. Effects are typically observed within weeks in animal studies, but human data on timing are lacking.

How it works

Sodium butyrate primarily functions as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, modulating gene expression and enhancing gut barrier integrity. It interacts with the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and immune system, with secondary effects on the central nervous system via the gut-brain axis. Molecularly, it targets histone deacetylases (HDACs), G protein-coupled receptors (GPR41, GPR43), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Upon ingestion, it is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine, but its systemic bioavailability is limited due to hepatic first-pass metabolism. By inhibiting HDACs, sodium butyrate influences the acetylation of histones, thereby affecting gene transcription and cellular function.

Side effects

Sodium butyrate is generally well-tolerated in both animal and limited human studies. The most common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects, reported in 1-5% of cases, may include mild headaches or nausea. Rare side effects are not well-documented, and no serious adverse events have been reported in the available literature. There are no significant drug interactions reported, although a theoretical risk exists with other HDAC inhibitors. No contraindications are established, but caution is advised for individuals with severe gastrointestinal disorders. Limited data are available for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and its use is not recommended without medical supervision.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of sodium butyrate in humans is not well established; animal studies use doses equivalent to 100–500 mg/kg body weight, which may not directly translate to humans. Human studies typically use dosages of 300–600 mg/day, but the optimal dosage is not firmly established. The maximum safe dose is undetermined, although doses up to 1,200 mg/day have been used in human trials without serious adverse effects. It is best taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Enteric-coated capsules may improve tolerability and absorption. Absorption is rapid but may be limited by hepatic metabolism. Dietary fiber may enhance endogenous butyrate production.

FAQs

Is sodium butyrate safe?

Sodium butyrate is generally safe but may cause mild GI symptoms. Enteric-coated forms are preferred for better tolerability. No serious adverse events have been reported, but long-term safety in humans is not well studied.

When should I take sodium butyrate?

Take sodium butyrate with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. This can help improve tolerance and absorption of the supplement.

What are the expected results from taking sodium butyrate?

Improvements in gut health and metabolic markers are most likely. Neurological benefits are less certain in humans. It is not a cure-all; benefits are most robust in animal models.

What is the best form of sodium butyrate to take?

Enteric-coated capsules are generally preferred as they help to improve tolerability and absorption by preventing the release of butyrate in the stomach.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11999427/ – This article discusses the role of sodium butyrate in improving gut health and its potential therapeutic applications. It highlights the mechanisms through which butyrate impacts intestinal homeostasis and reduces inflammation, emphasizing its importance in maintaining gut barrier function.
https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2025/04110/efficacy_of_sodium_butyrate_in_improving.23.aspx – This study investigates the efficacy of sodium butyrate in improving liver function and reducing liver triglycerides and total cholesterol in animal models of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The meta-analysis reveals significant improvements in liver health, suggesting sodium butyrate as a potential therapeutic agent for NAFLD.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10221771/ – This research explores the pleiotropic effects of butyrate, focusing on its role in improving intestinal homeostasis and modulating tight junctions. It provides mechanistic insights into how butyrate reduces inflammation and supports gut health, primarily based on preclinical data.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1037696/full – This article reviews the impact of sodium butyrate on gut microbiota composition and its subsequent effects on host health. It emphasizes the role of butyrate in promoting a balanced gut environment and its potential to alleviate various gastrointestinal disorders.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2024.1304906/full – This meta-analysis of animal studies examines the effects of butyrate on cerebral ischemic injury, revealing that butyrate reduces neurological deficit scores and improves motor function. The findings suggest a potential neuroprotective role for butyrate in the context of stroke, although further human studies are needed.