Sodium butyrate side effects, benefits, and deficiency ...

When you think of fermentation, pickles or dairy products may appear before your eyes. You'll picture the inside of a fridge rather than... your intestines. And yet!

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There are many complex and amazing processes taking place in the body. One of these is the fermentation of fibre in the intestines. This is what produces sodium butyrate - a substance whose popularity continues to grow in the dietary supplement market.

For the time being, science shows that sodium butyrate is the most important substance in the body.

For the time being, science shows us rather limited evidence of its effects, having mainly animal and in vitro studies. However, there is no denying that the results of some of these are very optimistic.

See also:

• Butyric acid
• All about probiotics
• All about prebiotics
• All about synbiotics
• Gut starch
• Probiotic for IBS

What is sodium butyrate?

Sodium butyrate (also called butyric acid, or more accurately sodium salt of butyric acid) is a short chain fatty acid ( short chain fatty acids - SCFA) that is naturally produced in your gut. It is produced by probiotic bacteria during the breakdown of fibre (its fermentation). Sodium butyrate is therefore one of the metabolic products of probiotics

In order to digest certain types of fibre (such as GOS - galactooligosaccharides or FOS - fructooligosaccharides), they need to reach the gut and be broken down by the bacteria of the microbiota. The products resulting from this process are short-chain fatty acids, such as :

• acetate (60%),
• propionate (20%),
• butyrate (20%),

Degradation of dietary fibre by the intestinal microflora results in the formation of organic acids, gases and large amounts of SCFAs. This is made possible by the production by bacteria of unique digestive enzymes that cannot be produced by mammals.

Substrates for bacterial fermentation include indigestible carbohydrates derived from dietary fibre such as polysaccharide plant cell walls, resistant starch, soluble oligosaccharides and endogenous products such as mucin, adds the pharmacist.

All metabolites are needed in your body, but it is butyrate that has recently gained huge popularity among manufacturers of health-promoting dietary supplements. Is it rightly so? Well, most of the studies on this compound have been conducted in vitro. As for those involving humans - there aren't many so far.

What we know for sure about sodium butyrate is that it is the main source of energy for colon epithelial cells, or colonocytes . It is estimated to provide as much as 70% of their energy requirements, thus being an essential ingredient to ensure their proper functioning

In addition, scientists are currently studying the effects of sodium butyrate on the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body, as well as its insulin-regulating properties

Interesting facts

Sodium butyrate can also be found in some foods, such as butter (yes, the coincidence of the names is no coincidence) - it contains about 3-4 g of butyrate in 100 g. You can also supply it through supplementation.

How does sodium butyrate work?

The mechanism of action of sodium butyrate at the biochemical level is not yet well understood. Research suggests that this compound may affect :

• immune response of the body,
• cell differentiation,
• apoptosis, i.e. death of old and used cells,
• strengthening the protective barrier in the gut,
• providing energy for intestinal epithelial cells,
• expansion of skeletal muscles;

What does sodium butyrate help with?

Sodium butyrate is mainly used as a support for various gastric complaints. It has a protective and regenerative effect on the digestive system. However, some studies show that this metabolite can do much more for your body.

A study suggests that sodium butyrate can inhibit the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria that can lead to septic shock . In contrast, an in vitro study of Crohn's disease showed that sodium butyrate can inhibit inflammatory responses

In contrast, Polish researchers take a different view. A study involving children and adolescents with newly diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease did not confirm the efficacy of sodium butyrate as an adjunctive therapy . Results from studies in adults with similar conditions are not consistent

One possible reason for the discrepancy in results is the lack of an agreed appropriate dose of sodium butyrate to be taken for it to be effective

Sodium butyrate for reflux

I have not found a single scientific paper that examines the effects of sodium butyrate on reflux. Despite this, it seems that maintaining a healthy gut can help with all gastrointestinal conditions. Sodium butyrate can regenerate damaged epithelium and improve intestinal function, thereby positively affecting the entire digestive process

But beware, gastric reflux can also be a symptom of excessive production of sodium butyrate by probiotic bacteria. It is therefore advisable to seek medical advice before starting supplementation with this metabolite.

Sodium butyrate for the gut

Sodium butyrate has a significant effect on your intestines. It helps to regenerate their cells and gives them energy to work properly. It also supports the production of mucus, which lining your intestines and is an important component of their protective barrier. In this way, it supports the prevention of harmful substances and pathogens from entering the bloodstream

Also, animal studies suggest that sodium butyrate may help alleviate symptoms of, for example, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain or irregular bowel movements

There is an interesting review of research in , the results of which suggest that sodium butyrate may support the treatment of colorectal cancer and induce cancer cell death. It may also improve the outcome of radiotherapy, and protect mucous membranes from degradation resulting from chemotherapy

Despite these optimistic conclusions, I want to emphasise that these are only preliminary studies and in no way can sodium butyrate be considered a cure for cancer.

Butyrate is used by colonocytes to produce energy, which increases oxygen consumption by the epithelium. As a result, the presence of butyrate-producing bacteria helps to maintain an anaerobic environment in the gut, which further prevents the colonisation of opportunistic aerobic pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli

Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy

Sodium butyrate for constipation and bloating

Sodium butyrate can also act on problems with bloating and constipation. It improves intestinal peristalsis, which facilitates the bowel movement process. In addition, it helps to regulate gas accumulation in the intestines, resulting in a reduction in bloating

Sodium butyrate for weight loss

If you are looking for weight loss support, you may have come across information that sodium butyrate would be a valuable addition to your diet. The research in this regard is contradictory. Certainly, sodium butyrate may support healthy gut flora and help improve digestion and nutrient absorption

Some studies suggest that it may also contribute to regulating metabolism by reducing glucose and lipid production in the liver . Interestingly, in malnourished individuals, sodium butyrate may instead result in weight gain due to improved nutrient absorption

So is sodium butyrate a miracle pill for a slim waistline? Some studies say otherwise.

A research paper reported higher levels of sodium butyrate in obese people with high blood pressure and metabolic disorders, compared to normal weight people . In contrast, a study found that taking sodium butyrate may increase body fat production

See also:

• Probiotics for weight loss
• Best weight loss pills

Sodium butyrate for thyroid disease

Although sodium butyrate does not directly affect the function thyroid, many of the diseases of this organ cause unpleasant gastrointestinal complaints. By regenerating the gut, strengthening its protective and immune functions, and influencing the regulation of metabolism, sodium butyrate may help to combat these symptoms

If you are ill...

It doesn't matter what reason you want to take sodium butyrate - if you suffer from any illness, it's worth consulting your doctor before starting supplementation (or even before drastically changing your diet). There are instances where sodium butyrate may harm you. You will read more about this in the section "Sodium butyrate - contraindications".

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How to use sodium butyrate?

It is best to supplement sodium butyrate with food. You can do this through two groups of foods: foods that contain it, and those that will support its production in the gut

The first group includes mainly milk-processing products (and the fattiest ones), so it is not recommended to consume them in excessive quantities. The second group of products will include sources of soluble fibre (GOS and FOS), which is fermented by prebiotic bacteria, resulting in sodium butyrate. These can already be eaten in much larger quantities.

Sodium butyrate: dosage

The appropriate daily dose of sodium butyrate has not been established. The only thing that can be used to try to determine what dose of this ingredient would be appropriate is... the portions given to participants in scientific studies.

On this basis, a portion 150-300 mg of sodium butyrate per day appears to be safe and effective

Sodium butyrate: before or after eating?

In most cases, sodium butyrate is taken during or after a meal. However, it is always advisable to check the recommendations of the manufacturer of a particular preparation. Some recommend supplementing sodium butyrate with breakfast, so that you can enjoy its effects on the gut throughout the day. Even so, it seems that the time of taking this compound does not matter much.

Sodium butyrate - contraindications

Sodium butyrate is considered a safe ingredient, however, there are a few situations where you should be extra careful :

• Intolerances and allergies: If you are allergic to sodium butyrate or any of the ingredients in the dietary supplement, you should not take it. Allergy symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat.
• Kidney Diseases: Sodium butyrate is excreted from the body through the kidneys, so if you have kidney problems, taking this supplement may be risky for you.
• Heart diseases: Sodium butyrate can affect sodium levels in the body, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease.
• Some intestinal diseases: Although sodium butyrate is mainly used to improve intestinal function, it is not recommended for people who need to restrict fibre in their diet.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using sodium butyrate during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well studied. Therefore, it is not indicated for women who are expecting a baby and those who are lactating.
• Use of other medicines: Sodium butyrate may interact with some medicines. Therefore, before starting to use sodium butyrate, if you are already taking any medicines, advise a specialist.

Important

Remember, always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplement, including sodium butyrate.

Sodium butyrate - side effects

Sodium butyrate, despite its benefits, may cause some side effects. Remember that every body reacts differently, so you don't have to experience the symptoms listed at all.

The most common side effects of taking sodium butyrate include gastrointestinal distress. Taking sodium butyrate can cause discomforts such as :

• increased bowel function,
• nausea,
• abdominal pain,
• diarrhoea,

Very often gastrointestinal symptoms pass after a few days of use or may be a sign that you are taking too much. If symptoms are bothersome or worsen, discontinue the supplement and consult your doctor.

Take the supplement as soon as possible.

Allergic reactions may also occur when taking sodium butyrate. A rash, hoarseness, swelling, or even difficulty breathing should immediately prompt you to stop supplementation and contact your doctor.

Some people may also experience allergic reactions.

Some people may also experience changes in appetite - both increased and decreased

Remember that if you experience any worrying symptoms after taking sodium butyrate, you should consult your doctor.

See also:

• Alpha-lipoic acid

Summary

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) produced by some types of gut bacteria when they break down or digest fibre. Fibre is found in plant-based foods and is largely indigestible, meaning humans do not have the enzymes to digest and absorb fibre, thus passing through to the colon or large bowel. In your colon, the fibre is fermented by your gut bacteria to produce SCFAs.

The key to a gut-friendly diet is eating foods known as prebiotics. Prebiotics include types of dietary fibre that act as a fuel source for health-promoting gut bacteria which produce beneficial substances like SCFAs. Besides butyrate, other SCFAs produced in the gut include acetate and propionate, and while all SCFAs have scientifically proven health benefits1, butyrate is the most well researched.

Butyrate supports your gut health and may also provide protection against some inflammation-based diseases. The &#;superpower&#; qualities of butyrate include:

&#; Maintaining our gut barrier by feeding our gut cells2

&#; Suppressing inflammation in the gut3,4

&#; Boosting the immune system&#;s defence against disease-causing bacteria5

&#; Reducing appetite6 which can help maintain a healthy body weight

&#; Maintaining blood sugar (glucose) levels7 which can help reduce diabetes risk.

Not surprisingly, reduced butyrate levels (and/or reduced bacterial ability to degrade fibre) have been associated with inflammatory bowel disease8-11.

Specific types of prebiotic fibres such as resistant starch, wheat bran and rye have demonstrated the ability to increase the number of butyrate producing bacteria or blood plasma levels of butyrate. Insufficient butyrate production by the gut microbiome could contribute to gastrointestinal, immune or metabolic issues, as stated above.

The best way to supercharge your gut microbiome to produce butyrate, is to eat a high-fibre diet that includes sources of resistant starch, wheat bran and/or rye. Additionally, some studies have demonstrated that a Mediterranean diet can increase circulating butyrate levels in the blood plasma (DOI: 10./j.clnu..05.025). This means eating a diet rich in plant-based foods such as wholegrains, vegetables, fruits, nuts/seeds and legumes. You can also increase the resistant starch content of foods such as potato, pasta and rice by cooking and then cooling them overnight for use in salads.

Below is a sample plan bursting with prebiotics that can boost your butyrate-producing potential. Resistant starch sources are in green and pectin sources are in blue.

Breakfast: Rolled oats with berries &#; cooked or raw; make room for rolled oats at brekky. Raw oats can be topped with a low-fat smoothie made with strawberries, raspberries and blueberries or added fresh to your porridge.

Lunch: Mediterranean pasta salad &#; bring your plate alive with colour. Toss together some cooked and cooled pasta leftovers with roasted sweet potato, zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and a few teaspoons of pesto.

Dinner: Lentil and mince cottage pie &#; try replacing half the beef mince in your traditional cottage pie with lentils and adding vegetables like onion, carrot, peas and corn, as well as the usual canned tomato/passata and herbs. Top with mashed potato and bake. Serve with steamed green beans, cauliflower, and broccoli for an additional prebiotic punch!

Hint: boil additional potatoes to keep in the fridge for potato salads (skin on), also do this with pasta when making your spaghetti bolognese!

Snacks: don&#;t forget your snacks to boost prebiotic intake between meals and help increase butyrate production. Go for hummus and carrot sticks, or try pectin-containing fruit such as a kiwi or orange.

To understand your gut microbiome&#;s potential to produce butyrate and for personalised dietary suggestions, we recommend discussing the Co-Biome MetaXplore range with your healthcare professional or finding a Co-Biome Certified Clinician to learn more.

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