Butyrate’s Body-Wide Benefits
The Gut-Derived Nutrient Supporting Metabolic Health & Menopausal Vitality
Increasing research highlights the vital role of gut health in supporting overall wellbeing and vitality. One standout player is butyrate — a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) (also referred to as a postbiotic) with far-reaching systemic benefits. Produced by beneficial gut bacteria during the fermentation of dietary fibres, butyrate isn’t just fuel for your colon — it acts as a multi-system regulator, influencing metabolism, immunity, brain function, inflammation, and even hormonal balance.
Cellular Energy Metabolism & Mitochondrial Health
Butyrate functions as a key energy source for colonic epithelial cells, but its impact goes far beyond the gut. It enters cells via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) and promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, enhancing cellular respiration and energy efficiency (Donohoe et al., 2011).
It also activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the “master switch” of energy metabolism. This leads to:
↑ Fat oxidation
↑ Glucose uptake
↓ Lipogenesis
↓ Insulin resistance
This AMPK activation mimics effects similar to exercise and fasting. This is a valuable tool for menopausal women where body composition changes are noticeable, with a reduction in insulin sensitivity.(Donohoe et al., 2011).
Epigenetic Regulation via HDAC Inhibition
One of butyrate’s most powerful actions is as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. HDACs control gene expression, so by inhibiting them, butyrate can improve cellular health at the genetic level via
- Inflammatory gene suppression
- Cell differentiation and repair
- Tumour suppression pathways
This epigenetic regulation helps explain its anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and immune-modulating properties (Hamer et al., 2008). A review has highlighted its potential role in preventing and treating certain cancers (Sun et al 2024)
Anti-inflammatory Action Across Tissues
Butyrate has anti-inflammatory properties through the following actions:
- Inhibits NF-κB activation — a key pathway in chronic inflammation
- Increases production of IL-10 (anti-inflammatory cytokine)
- Enhances regulatory T-cell (Treg) function and intestinal immune tolerance
- Maintains gut barrier integrity, reducing systemic endotoxin exposure (LPS) (Canani et al., 2011)
In menopause, this is crucial. Reduction in oestrogen heightens inflammatory markers and disrupts immune balance — butyrate offers a counterbalance through these pathways (Canani et al., 2011).
Appetite & Hormonal Regulation via GLP-1
Butyrate stimulates enteroendocrine L-cells in the colon to release gut-derived hormones such as:
- GLP-1 (Glucagon-like Peptide-1) – enhances insulin secretion, improves satiety, delays gastric emptying, and supports beta-cell function
- PYY (Peptide YY) – promotes satiety and reduces appetite
A 2012 study in Cell Metabolism found that SCFAs, particularly butyrate and propionate, directly upregulate GLP-1 and PYY release, contributing to reduced energy intake and improved glucose metabolism (Tolhurst et al., 2012). These hormonal actions mimic some of the mechanisms behind GLP-1 receptor agonists used in diabetes and weight loss — but from a natural, endogenous source.
Oestrogen plays a key role in regulating appetite and energy balance. Its decline during menopause can lead to changes in the hormones that control hunger.
A 2022 study highlighted how butyrate influences metabolic health by modulating gut microbiota, particularly the Lachnospiraceae bacterium 28-4, suggesting a gut microbiota-dependent mechanism for some of its beneficial effects (Li et al 2022)
| Hormone | Role | Effect of Oestrogen Decline |
| Ghrelin | Stimulates appetite | Ghrelin levels tend to increase, leading to heightened feelings of hunger |
| Leptin | Signals fullness or satiety to the brain | Reduced leptin sensitivity, leading to reduced feelings of fullness and increased likelihood of overeating |
| PYY | Promote satiety and reduces appetite. | Decreased PYY secretion, which may contribute to increased hunger and overeating. |
Brain and Mental Health Support
Butyrate crosses the blood-brain barrier and impacts neurological function. It has been shown to:
- Increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) – important for learning, memory, and neuroplasticity
- Reduce neuroinflammation and support mitochondrial function which aids cognitive, memory and mood.
- As a HDAC inhibitor butyrate may protect against neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Multiple scelerosis (Chakraborty et al 2024). HDAC inhibitors can iprove neuronal survival, reduce neuroinflammation , prevent apoptosis and promote the release of protective proteins like BDNF
- Improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in animal models (Stilling et al., 2016) via the gut-brain axis
In menopause, when changes in oestrogen can impact mood, cognition, and sleep, butyrate may offer neuroprotective support (Stilling et al., 2016).
Cardiovascular, Liver & Lipid Benefits
Butyrate modulates lipid metabolism through:
↓ Serum triglycerides and LDL
↑ HDL production
↓ Atherosclerotic plaque formation in animal studies
↓ Blood pressure through interactions with the autonomic nervous system and vascular endothelial function (Hamer et al., 2008)
These effects are especially relevant during and after menopause, when cardiovascular risk increases dramatically. Studies have also shown Butyrate may be an effective agent for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease NAFLD (Mai et al 2024). Supplementation was associated with reduced liver enzymes, improved insulin sensitivity, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis
Bone Health Support
Emerging evidence suggests butyrate plays a role in bone metabolism. It has been shown to:
- Promote osteoblast differentiation and activity (bone-forming cells)
- Suppress osteoclastogenesis (bone resorption)
- Modulate immune cell signalling that affects bone remodelling
One study showed butyrate enhanced bone formation and prevented bone loss in preclinical models (Tyagi et al., 2018). This is particularly valuable during menopause, when bone density declines and inflammation increases.
Gut Health
Butyrate along with acetate and propionate is produced by gut microbes and support gut health by promoting mucin release, enhancing blood flow, creating an acid environment and aiding electrolyte and water absorption.
Butyrate has specific benefits through its role in epithelial cell metabolism and inhibition of histone deacetylation which helps regulate cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis, important for mitigating colon cancer and managing inflammatory bowel disease. Butyrate also provides potent anti-inflammatory benefits supporting gut barrier health. Butyrate also helps regulate bowel motility making it useful in supporting IBS symptoms (Lewandowski et al 2022). It has been shown to inhibit pathogenic bacteria like E coli and Salmonella and has anti-fungal properties. A 2025 study demonstrated the use of micro-encapsulated sodium butyrate on reducing abdominal pain in patients with symptomatic diverticular disease, indicating potential therapeutic benefits (Tursi et al 2025).
Butyrate & Menopause: Why It Matters
Menopause results in a number of body wide changes including:
↓ Oestrogen and progesterone
↑ Inflammation
↑ Insulin resistance
↓ Mitochondrial efficiency
↑ Visceral fat
↓ Mood stability and sleep quality
↓ Bone mineral density
Butyrate may help alleviate menopause symptoms by promoting gut health, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormonal balance, potentially easing common issues like mood swings and digestive discomfort. Longer term it can help support healthy lipids and metabolix health, cognitive function and bone health.
How to Boost Butyrate Naturally
Supporting a healthy microbiome will in turn aid the production of butyrate. Certain foods can be particularly helpful including:
- Cooked and cooled potatoes, rice or oats
- Cooked and cooled starchy vegetables
- Bananas especially underripe
- Plantains
- Green papaya
- Green mango
- Jerusalem artichokes
Supplementation
Butyrate is readily available as a supplement – I use BodyBio products in clinic which you can purchase here. It can be readily included as part of your supplement regime – recommendations below
| Gut Health | 2-4 capsules daily with food |
| Metabolic Health | 2 capsules at each meal |
| Cognitive Health | 2 capsules at each meal |
| Cellular Health | 2 capsules at each meal |
Butyrate is an example of the gut-body connection in action. From blood sugar regulation to mood support, cognitive function and cellular health, this SCFA plays an important role in maintaining equilibrium — especially during the menopause.
References
Canani RB, Costanzo MD, Leone L, Pedata M, Meli R, Calignano A. Potential beneficial effects of butyrate in intestinal and extraintestinal diseases. World J Gastroenterol. 2011 Mar 28;17(12):1519-28. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i12.1519. PMID: 21472114; PMCID: PMC3070119.
Donohoe, D.R., et al. (2011). The Warburg effect dictates the mechanism of butyrate-mediated histone acetylation and cell proliferation. Mol Cell, 48(4), 612–626.
Chakraborty P, Gamage HKAH, Laird AS. Butyrate as a potential therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative disorders. Neurochem Int. 2024 Jun;176:105745. doi: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105745. Epub 2024 Apr 18. PMID: 38641025.
Hamer, H.M., et al. (2008). Review article: the role of butyrate on colonic function. Aliment Pharmacol Ther, 27(2), 104–119.
Lewandowski K, Kaniewska M, Karłowicz K, Rosołowski M, Rydzewska G. The effectiveness of microencapsulated sodium butyrate at reducing symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Prz Gastroenterol. 2022;17(1):28-34. doi: 10.5114/pg.2021.112681. Epub 2022 Jan 18. PMID: 35371361; PMCID: PMC8942000.
Li Z, Zhou E, Liu C, Wicks H, Yildiz S, Razack F, Ying Z, Kooijman S, Koonen DPY, Heijink M, Kostidis S, Giera M, Sanders IMJG, Kuijper EJ, Smits WK, van Dijk KW, Rensen PCN, Wang Y. Dietary butyrate ameliorates metabolic health associated with selective proliferation of gut Lachnospiraceae bacterium 28-4. JCI Insight. 2023 Feb 22;8(4):e166655. doi: 10.1172/jci.insight.166655. PMID: 36810253; PMCID: PMC9977501.
Mai et al (2024) The role of gut microbiota in the occurrence and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Front. Microbiol. , 05 January 2024 Sec. Microbial Symbioses Volume 14 – 2023 |
Plottel, C.S., & Blaser, M.J. (2011). Microbiome and malignancy. Cell Host Microbe, 10(4), 324–335.
Stilling, R.M., et al. (2016). The neuropharmacology of butyrate: The bread and butter of the microbiota–gut–brain axis? Neurochem Int, 99, 110–132.
Sun J, Chen S, Zang D, Sun H, Sun Y, Chen J. Butyrate as a promising therapeutic target in cancer: From pathogenesis to clinic (Review). Int J Oncol. 2024 Apr;64(4):44. doi: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5632. Epub 2024 Mar 1. PMID: 38426581; PMCID: PMC10919761.
Tolhurst G, Heffron H, Lam YS, Parker HE, Habib AM, Diakogiannaki E, Cameron J, Grosse J, Reimann F, Gribble FM. Short-chain fatty acids stimulate glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion via the G-protein-coupled receptor FFAR2. Diabetes. 2012 Feb;61(2):364-71. doi: 10.2337/db11-1019. Epub 2011 Dec 21. PMID: 22190648; PMCID: PMC3266401.
Tursi Antonio , Procaccianti Giorgia , De Bastiani Rudi , Turroni Silvia , D’Amico Federica , Allegretta Leonardo , Antonino Natale , Baldi Elisabetta , Casamassima Carlo , Casella Giovanni , Ciuffi Mario , De Bastiani Marco , Lazzarotto Lorenzo , Licci Claudio , Mancuso Maurizio , Penna Antonio , Pranzo Giuseppe , Sanna Guido , Tosetti Cesare , Zamparella Maria , Picchio Marcello (2025) Micro-encapsulated and colonic-release sodium butyrate modulates gut microbiota and improves abdominal pain in patients with symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease Frontiers in Medicine 12 DOI=10.3389/fmed.2025.1487892
Tyagi AM, Yu M, Darby TM, Vaccaro C, Li JY, Owens JA, Hsu E, Adams J, Weitzmann MN, Jones RM, Pacifici R. The Microbial Metabolite Butyrate Stimulates Bone Formation via T Regulatory Cell-Mediated Regulation of WNT10B Expression. Immunity. 2018 Dec 18;49(6):1116-1131.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.immuni.2018.10.013. Epub 2018 Nov 13. PMID: 30446387; PMCID: PMC6345170.