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Butyric acid

March 22, 2023

In individuals with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), it has been observed that there are fewer bacteria capable of producing butyric acid in the gut, which may contribute to the disease. Swedish researchers are now investigating how butyric acid affects the intestine and whether it can be used as a treatment method for IBS.

What is Butyric Acid?

Butyric acid is a fatty acid produced by a few species of bacteria in the large intestine when they break down various types of dietary fiber. It has been found that having a high concentration of butyric acid offers health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to strengthen the gut barrier function, thereby reducing permeability. This prevents harmful substances from passing through the intestinal lining into the body. This is currently being studied more closely in research at Örebro University.

– “We will use an experimental model where we study small tissue samples from the intestine as well as blood samples from the same subject before and after exposing the gut to butyric acid. We will investigate this in both healthy individuals and IBS patients,” says Rebecca Wall, a researcher at the university.

Sofia Antonsson
Reg. Dietitian, Belly Balance

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