Butyrate is the conjugate base of the butyric acid. It is also known as butanoate. The formula of butyrate ion is C4H7O2-. It can be named according to the different groups attached to it like ethyl, methyl, and propyl. They all have different properties and functions. But they have the same origin. In the lumen of the colon when bacteria perform the fermentation of dietary fibers butyrate ions are liberated. This is where it is formed in the human body. It can be considered as digestion product from the human body. It has many therapeutic and preventive functions in the intestine. That is why its amount has to be maintained in the body.
Importance in intestine
Butyrate is produced in the intestinal lumen and colonic lumen. In both places, it has main functions in maintaining normal health. It has a main role in preventing intestinal diseases. Mainly include inflammatory diseases and cancers. It has preventive roles in ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer. It induces apoptosis in cancerous cells which in turn reduces the risk of cancer. That is why it is used in many medicines to treat these diseases. It is also a metabolite in the intestinal and extraintestinal cavities.
Extraintestinal and intestinal effects
It has many extraintestinal and intestinal effects. Altogether it maintains the normal health. It increases the intestinal motility which reduces the chances of constipation. This, in turn, reduces the probability of hemorrhoids. It also reduces the mucosal inflammation in the intestine. On extraintestinal levels, it has enhanced effects of insulin resistance, stroke, hypercholesterolemia and genetic metabolic disorders. As being a fatty acid it plays role in cholesterol synthesis and distribution. It saves the body from obesity and atherosclerotic diseases.
How to maintain butyrate levels in the body
As it saves the body from fatal diseases the levels are to be regulated within the desired range. Butyrate supplements are given when a deficiency occurs. In Crohn’s disease, the butyrate-producing bacteria are also injected in vitro. Oral butyrate in combination with salts like sodium is also given in the treatment of such diseases.
Diet containing butyrate
If you want to maintain your butyrate levels naturally make the diet that is rich in fibers your daily routine. When you intake fibers they get fermented by bacteria, as a result, butyrate is formed. Add butter and ghee to your daily diet. As this a short chain fatty acid, this will surely help to increase its amount. Whole grains and yogurt are also natural sources of butyrate. Fruits and vegetables should also be a part of daily intake. All these intakes lead to a healthy diet and take you away from all the gut problems.
Symptoms and complications of butyrate deficiency;
Butyrate deficiency leads to
- Epigastric pain
- Indigestion and flatulence
- Colorectal cancer
- Inflammation of gut lumen
- Crohn’s diseases
- Insulin resistance
- Obesity
- Atherosclerotic diseases
Summary
In order to recapitulate, butyrate seems very essential ingredient needed to maintain health. This keeps the body safe by inducing apoptosis and preventing cancer. Colorectal cancer is very common. So, keep butyrate levels up to maintain this. It has extraintestinal effects like providing prevention against ischemic stroke. One way or other it is very essential to have appropriate levels of butyrate. And, supplements or by natural diet, we can get it. It has therapeutic effects as well.
