Is Butyrate the Best Microbiome Product?

The microbiome continues to be viewed as a cornerstone of health, whether we are discussing the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular risk, immune dysfunction, and even cognitive health. One major contributions of the microbiome to our global health is in the production of short-chain fatty acids. Primary among these products is a compound known as n-butyrate. N-butyrate has profound roles, not only in our gut, but throughout our entire body. What are all the impacts of n-butyrate, and how do we foster an adequate supply of it? These are but some of the questions we discuss on today’s Lab Report. In this episode, we continue our spree on the importance of gut health. We cover food sources that are important for microbiome health, particularly for fermentation of short-chain fatty acids. We also cover how butyrate impacts the gut, the immune system, and much more. With all the profound roles of n-butyrate, it begs the question: is it the greatest of all the things made by our microbiome? Today on The Lab Report: 5:30 Gut microbiome production of SCFA’s (short-chain fatty acids) 6:30 Food sources of n-butyrate 8:00 Let’s Google It: The entomology of ‘butyrate’ 9:00 Butyrogenic species: What bacteria produce butyrate? 10:45 How butyrate is used throughout the body 13:00 Logical Speculation: n-butyrate, autoimmunity, and fiber 15:45 The gut-brain axis and appetite are influenced by butyrate 20:30 Skeletal muscle also responds to butyrate 23:30 Foods to eat to promote butyrate 26:00 N-Butyrate supplementation: mixed studies?   Additional Resources: GI Effects Stool Profile Microbiomix Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.