Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Tributyrin is a triglyceride form of butyric acid (butyrate), a short-chain fatty acid that is naturally produced in the colon by fermentation of dietary fiber. In recent years, tributyrin has been investigated for its potential to support small intestinal health due to its ability to act as a prodrug for butyrate, allowing for more targeted release and absorption in the upper gastrointestinal tract compared to free butyrate, which is rapidly absorbed and metabolized.

Several animal studies and a few human trials have indicated that tributyrin supplementation may help maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier, reduce inflammation, and promote mucosal healing. For example, research in pigs and rodents has shown that tributyrin can increase villus height, support epithelial cell proliferation, and reduce markers of intestinal inflammation. In humans, limited clinical studies suggest that butyrate (and by extension, tributyrin) may benefit conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and some forms of inflammatory bowel disease, though evidence is still emerging and more robust trials are needed.

Overall, while tributyrin’s use is not rooted in traditional medicine, there is a growing body of scientific literature supporting its role in supporting the health and function of the small intestine, particularly in terms of barrier integrity and inflammation modulation. The strength of evidence is moderate, warranting a score of 3, as most data come from preclinical studies with a need for more comprehensive human clinical trials.

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