Butyrate is an important short chain fatty acid that provides fuel for colon cells and may help protect against colon cancer. The most potent dietary source is butter (3%).

	Bacterial Dysbiosis The Condition "...from this diet are measured by an increase in stool pH (partly caused by elevated ammonia production) and in bile or urobilinogen and possibly by a decrease in short chain fatty acids, especially in butyrate..." Butyrate As A Treatment "Adequate amounts of butyrate, a fatty acid, are necessary for the health of the large intestine cells..." CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) As A Treatment "...An animal study suggests that dietary butyrate may also inhibit mammary tumorigenesis, as well as being an important colon cancer protective agent..." Colon Cancer Recommendation Arabinogalactans "...It has been shown to increase the production of short-chain fatty acids, principally butyrate and proprionate..." Probiotics As A Treatment "...Bifidobacteria use the fiber from foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains to make short-chain fatty acids, including butyrate..." Ulcerative Colitis Recommendation High/Increased Fiber Diet "...In addition, the Plantago ovata seed may help prevent colon cancer, a common complication of ulcerative colitis, because it increases colonic butyrate levels..." Recommendation Butyrate "Whether by supplement or by enema, pilot studies suggest butyrate is useful in reducing symptoms and restoring indicators of colon health in ulcerative colitis, although one study showed no benefit over placebo..."

Last updated: Aug 15, 2009