Synopsis

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

Sodium butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid salt that has been investigated for its potential benefits in the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The rationale for its use stems from butyrate’s role as a primary energy source for colonocytes, its anti-inflammatory properties, and its ability to strengthen the intestinal barrier. Several small clinical trials and pilot studies suggest that sodium butyrate supplementation may help reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort in IBS patients. For instance, a randomized, placebo-controlled trial published in 2012 (Banasiewicz et al., "A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of sodium butyrate in patients with irritable bowel syndrome") demonstrated a significant reduction in abdominal pain in the butyrate group compared to placebo. Additional studies suggest improvements in bowel habits and quality of life. However, these studies are generally limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and methodological heterogeneity.

Systematic reviews note that while the preliminary data are promising, the overall quality of evidence is low to moderate, and more large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to draw firm conclusions. Sodium butyrate is not yet a mainstream or guideline-recommended therapy for IBS, but it is used in some clinical practices based on emerging evidence. Thus, while there is a scientific basis for its use, the strength of evidence supporting sodium butyrate for IBS is modest (rated 2/5).

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