Best Butyrate Supplements for Gut Health (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Butyrate supplements have become a go-to solution for supporting digestive health, healing leaky gut, and nourishing the cells that line your colon. This short-chain fatty acid is naturally produced when gut bacteria ferment fiber, but many people don’t make enough due to low-fiber diets or antibiotic use.
The best butyrate supplements use highly bioavailable forms like tributyrin or calcium/magnesium butyrate with optimal dosing. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BodyBio Calcium Magnesium Butyrate | Cal/Mag Butyrate 600mg | 50 | Capsules | Best Overall |
| Healthy Gut Tributyrin-X | 99% Pure Tributyrin | 90 | Softgels | Best Tributyrin |
| Designs for Health Tri-Butyrin Supreme | Tributyrin 500mg | 60 | Softgels | Best Premium |
| BodyBio Sodium Butyrate | Sodium Butyrate 600mg | 100 | Capsules | Best Value |
| Tesseract ProButyrate | Butyric Acid Complex 600mg | 120 | Capsules | Best Absorption Technology |
| DEVA Vegan Tributyrin | Tributyrin 500mg | 90 | Capsules | Best Vegan Option |
| Allergy Research ButyrEn | ButyraGen Complex 200mg | 100 | DR Capsules | Best Delayed-Release |
| Peak Performance CoreBiome Tributyrin | CoreBiome Tributyrin 55% | 30 | Capsules | Best Clinically-Tested |
| Nutricology ButyrAid | ButyraGen 200mg | 100 | DR Capsules | Best Hypoallergenic |
| Tributyrin-Max | Tributyrin 750mg | 60 | Enteric Capsules | Best High-Potency |
1. BodyBio Calcium Magnesium Butyrate – Best Overall
Why it stands out: BodyBio delivers 600mg of butyrate per capsule with calcium and magnesium buffers that counteract butyric acid’s natural acidity. This makes it gentler on the stomach while still providing therapeutic doses. The brand is backed by over 5,000 scientific studies on butyrate and has been trusted by functional medicine practitioners for decades.
Each serving provides 1,200mg of butyrate across two capsules, making it one of the most potent options available. The calcium and magnesium buffers not only improve tolerability but also provide additional mineral support that many people need. BodyBio uses vegetarian capsules with MCT oil derived from coconut and palm sources as a carrier, and the formula contains no fillers or additives to mask the scent.
The company specifically chose not to add odor-masking agents because these can interfere with butyrate’s benefits. While the characteristic smell may be off-putting initially, it’s actually a sign of an authentic, pure product. Many users report improvements in digestion, reduced bloating, and better bowel regularity within the first few weeks. The formula supports healthy gut bacteria formation and may help with brain fog by sequestering ammonia.
Pros:
- High potency at 600mg per capsule
- Calcium and magnesium buffers improve tolerability
- No fillers, additives, or artificial masking agents
- cGMP certified and research-backed
- Supports both gut and cognitive function
Cons:
- Noticeable fermented smell (normal for quality butyrate)
- Capsules can be large for some people
Best for: Anyone seeking comprehensive gut healing support with a well-researched, high-dose butyrate supplement that delivers real therapeutic benefits.
2. Healthy Gut Tributyrin-X – Best Tributyrin
Why it stands out: This supplement uses 99.9% pure liquid tributyrin, the most bioavailable form of butyrate available. Tributyrin releases butyrate gradually throughout the digestive system, allowing it to reach the lower gut where it’s needed most. The company was founded by people who personally struggled with gut issues and spent years researching effective solutions.
Tributyrin-X comes in easy-to-swallow softgels that are virtually odorless—a major advantage over traditional butyrate supplements. The liquid tributyrin format offers superior stability and membrane penetration compared to salt-based butyrate forms. Unlike sodium or calcium butyrate which are quickly metabolized in the colon, tributyrin diffuses through biological membranes and releases butyrate over time directly into cells.
Each bottle contains 90 softgels with no additives, stearates, fillers, silicon dioxide, charcoal, or lactose. The professional-grade formulation makes this ideal for serious gut health protocols. Users consistently report normalized bowel movements, less bloating, reduced food sensitivities, and improved leaky gut symptoms. The small softgels are easy to swallow and don’t cause the unpleasant burps that some butyrate supplements trigger.
Pros:
- 99.9% pure liquid tributyrin for maximum bioavailability
- Zero odor softgels with no unpleasant burps
- No fillers, additives, or common allergens
- Professional-grade quality with 90 softgels per bottle
- Founded by people who understand gut health struggles
Cons:
- Higher price point than basic butyrate supplements
- Requires consistent daily use for best results
Best for: Those who want the most bioavailable form of butyrate without dealing with unpleasant odors or large pills.
3. Designs for Health Tri-Butyrin Supreme – Best Premium
Why it stands out: As the #1 practitioner-recommended supplement brand in functional medicine, Designs for Health delivers a premium tributyrin formula with odor-minimizing innovation. Each softgel provides 500mg of tributyrin—a unique fusion of three butyrate molecules attached to glycerol.
Tri-Butyrin Supreme is formulated specifically for gut permeability support and overall GI health. The softgel format with black cumin seed oil helps minimize the characteristic butyrate smell while improving absorption. This is a clinically-trusted choice backed by functional medicine professionals who recommend it for leaky gut protocols, digestive repair, and immune support. The formula is gluten-free and uses high-quality MCT as a carrier.
Pros:
- Practitioner-trusted brand with clinical backing
- Odor-minimizing softgel technology
- Premium tributyrin form for superior absorption
- Contains beneficial black cumin seed
Cons:
- Premium pricing reflects clinical-grade quality
Best for: Those working with healthcare practitioners on comprehensive gut healing protocols.
4. BodyBio Sodium Butyrate – Best Value
Why it stands out: BodyBio’s sodium butyrate version offers the same research-backed quality as their cal/mag formula at a more accessible price point. Sodium butyrate is the form used in almost all scientific research on butyrate, making this an excellent evidence-based choice for those who want proven results.
At 600mg per capsule with 100 capsules per bottle, this delivers outstanding value for a quality butyrate supplement. The formula uses vegetarian capsules and MCT oil with no fillers or additives—the same clean formulation philosophy that makes BodyBio a trusted name among practitioners. Some people actually prefer sodium butyrate specifically because it’s what researchers have used in clinical trials examining gut health, brain function, and metabolic effects.
While the average American diet already has excess sodium, the amount in butyrate supplements is minimal—about 78mg per serving, which is less than you’d get from a small serving of most prepared foods. Users report the same benefits as the cal/mag version: improved digestion, reduced bloating, better bowel regularity, and clearer thinking. The 100-capsule bottle provides excellent long-term value for consistent supplementation.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-dose ratio
- Same form used in clinical research
- 100 capsules per bottle for long-term value
- No fillers or additives
- Trusted practitioner brand
Cons:
- Not ideal for those strictly limiting sodium intake
- Same noticeable smell as other pure butyrate products
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers who want research-backed butyrate without premium pricing, and those who prefer the most-studied form of butyrate.
5. Tesseract Medical Research ProButyrate – Best Absorption Technology
Why it stands out: ProButyrate uses proprietary CyLoc® nano-molecular delivery technology that allows for maximum absorption and bioavailability at micro-doses. This advanced delivery system helps butyrate reach the colon more effectively than standard capsules by protecting it through the harsh stomach environment.
Each bottle contains 120 capsules providing 600mg of a butyric acid complex per serving—making this one of the better values when considering both quantity and delivery technology. The unique CyLoc® system creates an extremely palatable option that’s easier to tolerate than many butyrate supplements. Users who’ve struggled with other products often find ProButyrate more comfortable to take daily.
ProButyrate is designed specifically to help restore balance and stabilize the gut microbiome. The formula includes calcium butyrate and tributyrin components for comprehensive short-chain fatty acid support, addressing multiple aspects of gut health simultaneously. The company also provides an e-book guide on butyrate with information about dosage, usage, and digestive health, which is helpful for those new to butyrate supplementation.
Pros:
- Advanced CyLoc® delivery technology for better absorption
- 120 capsules per bottle—excellent value
- Contains both tributyrin and calcium butyrate
- Better tolerability than standard formulas
- Includes educational resources
Cons:
- May require two capsules per serving for optimal dosing
- Less well-known brand than some competitors
Best for: Those who’ve had difficulty tolerating other butyrate supplements or want enhanced absorption through advanced delivery technology.
6. DEVA Vegan Tributyrin – Best Vegan Option
Why it stands out: DEVA provides 500mg of 100% vegan and vegetarian tributyrin per capsule, certified by the Vegan Society. This is made from non-animal sources through a special manufacturing process, making it perfect for plant-based lifestyles without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
The formula is free from dairy, gluten, salt, soy, sugar, wheat, and yeast—accommodating a wide range of dietary restrictions that often overlap with vegan lifestyles. As a tributyrin supplement, it offers the superior bioavailability of this butyrate precursor while maintaining strict vegan standards throughout production. Tributyrin supports bowel function, water and sodium absorption in the intestines, and maintenance of the gut’s protective mucus layer.
The 90-count bottle provides excellent value for a specialty vegan product, lasting up to three months at the standard one-capsule-daily dose. DEVA has established itself as a trusted brand for vegan supplements, with all products certified 100% animal-free. For plant-based consumers who’ve struggled to find quality butyrate options, this fills an important gap in the market.
Pros:
- 100% vegan certified by the Vegan Society
- Free from all major allergens and common sensitivities
- Tributyrin form for better absorption and less odor
- 90 capsules per bottle for long-term value
- Trusted brand specializing in vegan nutrition
Cons:
- Lower dose per capsule than some competitors
- May need to take 2 capsules daily for therapeutic dosing
Best for: Vegans, vegetarians, and those with multiple food sensitivities seeking quality butyrate support without animal-derived ingredients.
7. Allergy Research Group ButyrEn – Best Delayed-Release
Why it stands out: ButyrEn uses delayed-release vegetarian capsules that resist stomach acid, ensuring the butyrate reaches the colon where it’s needed most. The gastric acid-resistant design delivers ButyraGen tributyrin complex directly to the intestines for maximum effectiveness.
Each capsule contains 200mg of ButyraGen tributyrin complex, and the suggested dose of 1-3 capsules daily allows for personalized dosing based on your needs and tolerance. This flexibility is particularly valuable for sensitive individuals who need to start low and build up gradually. The delayed-release mechanism means butyrate doesn’t break down in stomach acid, delivering it intact to where it can best nourish colon cells.
The formula is hypoallergenic and free from wheat, gluten, dairy, soy, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, corn, and yeast—an impressively clean label for those with multiple sensitivities. Founded in 1979, Allergy Research Group pioneered hypoallergenic supplements and continues to maintain the strictest purity standards in the industry. Users consistently report comfortable digestion without the gas and bloating that some butyrate or prebiotic products cause.
Pros:
- Delayed-release capsules bypass stomach acid for intestinal delivery
- Hypoallergenic formula free from all common allergens
- Flexible dosing from 1-3 capsules daily
- Established brand since 1979 with proven track record
- Comfortable digestion without gas or bloating
Cons:
- Lower per-capsule dose requires multiple capsules for full therapeutic effect
- Higher cost per milligram than bulk-dose options
Best for: Those with sensitive stomachs, multiple food allergies, or chemical sensitivities who need reliable, gentle gut support.
8. Peak Performance CoreBiome Tributyrin – Best Clinically-Tested
Why it stands out: This supplement features patented CoreBiome® tributyrin that’s backed by clinical studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Research shows CoreBiome significantly boosts F. prausnitzii and Anaerostipes—two important butyrate-producing bacteria.
CoreBiome tributyrin has been tested by the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, demonstrating colonic bioavailability—meaning it actually reaches where it needs to work. The formula contains 55% tributyrin extract and is free from soy, milk, eggs, shellfish, corn, wheat, peanuts, gluten, and preservatives. Manufactured under GMP regulations and USA standards, this is designed for high-performance individuals who demand evidence-backed supplements.
Pros:
- Clinically tested and published in peer-reviewed journals
- Patented CoreBiome® ingredient
- Proven colonic bioavailability
- Free from major allergens
Cons:
- Smaller bottle size (30 capsules)
Best for: Evidence-focused consumers who want clinical research backing their supplements.
9. Nutricology ButyrAid – Best Hypoallergenic
Why it stands out: Nutricology pioneered hypoallergenic supplements in 1979, and ButyrAid maintains their strict standards. The formula supplies butyrate as ButyraGen, a tributyrin complex that yields four molecules of butyrate for comprehensive gut support.
Each delayed-release capsule contains 200mg of ButyraGen tributyrin complex. Nutricology defines hypoallergenic as free from wheat, corn, soy, gluten, yeast, dairy, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, and peanuts. Many highly sensitive individuals who react to supplements in general can tolerate Nutricology products. The delayed-release capsules ensure comfortable delivery without gas or bloating that some prebiotics cause.
Pros:
- Truly hypoallergenic formulation
- Delayed-release for intestinal delivery
- Does not cause gas or bloating
- Trusted since 1979
Cons:
- Requires 2-6 capsules daily for full therapeutic dose
Best for: Highly sensitive individuals who react to most supplements or have multiple chemical sensitivities.
10. Tributyrin-Max – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: At 750mg per capsule, Tributyrin-Max is the highest-dose tributyrin capsule currently available, requiring fewer pills to achieve an effective therapeutic dose. The enteric-coated, plant-based capsules ensure delivery through stomach acid to the intestines.
This supplement is specifically designed to slow intestinal motility—ideal for those with loose stools or food passing too quickly through the digestive system. The tributyrin form offers superior bioavailability with low odor and chemical stability. It helps support a healthy gut microbiome, seal leaky gut, and may decrease food sensitivities and histamine reactions. The formula also supports regulatory T-cells, which help reduce inflammation.
Pros:
- Highest dose per capsule at 750mg
- Enteric-coated for intestinal delivery
- Specifically helps firm up loose stools
- Supports regulatory T-cells
Cons:
- From a small business brand (less established)
Best for: Those needing high-potency butyrate to address diarrhea-predominant conditions or significant gut repair.
What is Butyrate and Who Should Take It?
Butyrate (also called butyric acid) is a short-chain fatty acid produced when beneficial gut bacteria ferment dietary fiber in your colon. It serves as the primary fuel source for colonocytes—the cells lining your colon—and plays crucial roles in gut barrier integrity, inflammation control, and immune function. Research also suggests butyrate influences the gut-brain axis and may help with cognitive function and mood regulation.
Most people don’t produce enough butyrate naturally due to low-fiber diets, antibiotic use, or gut dysbiosis. The average Western diet falls far short of recommended fiber intakes, and factors like aging and chronic stress can increase your butyrate needs. When butyrate production is compromised, it can lead to increased gut permeability (leaky gut), chronic inflammation, and disrupted immune function.
Signs you might benefit from butyrate supplementation include chronic digestive issues like bloating, gas, or irregular bowel movements, suspected leaky gut or food sensitivities, persistent brain fog or difficulty concentrating, recovering from antibiotic treatment, and autoimmune conditions. Those following low-carb, keto, or carnivore diets may particularly benefit since these diets are often low in the fermentable fibers that feed butyrate-producing bacteria. Some practitioners also recommend butyrate support during cancer prevention protocols due to its potential protective effects on colon cells.
How to Choose the Right Butyrate Supplement
Key Forms to Consider
Butyrate supplements come in three main forms, each with distinct characteristics. Sodium butyrate is the most extensively studied form in clinical research, making it an excellent evidence-based choice. However, it does add a small amount of sodium to your diet (typically 78-150mg per serving). Calcium/magnesium butyrate provides additional minerals and the buffering effect makes it gentler on the stomach—ideal for those with sensitive digestion or acid reflux.
Tributyrin is a pro-drug form where three butyrate molecules attach to a glycerol backbone. This structure offers superior chemical stability, reduced odor, and gradual release throughout the intestines. Because tributyrin must be broken down to release butyrate, it provides sustained delivery rather than a quick burst. For most people, we recommend tributyrin or calcium/magnesium butyrate unless you specifically want the most-researched form.
Effective doses typically range from 300mg to 1,200mg of butyrate daily for general gut health support, with some therapeutic protocols using up to 4,000mg under practitioner guidance. Start at the lower end and increase gradually to assess your tolerance.
Forms Compared
Capsules and tablets are the most common delivery methods. Standard capsules release their contents in the stomach, which means some butyrate may be absorbed before reaching the colon. Delayed-release or enteric-coated capsules help butyrate bypass stomach acid and reach the intestines intact—this is generally preferable for colonic benefits.
Softgels work particularly well for liquid tributyrin formulations and typically have significantly less odor than powdered forms. They’re also easier to swallow for many people. Powder forms exist but are less common due to butyrate’s strong, cheese-like smell that many find unpleasant.
What to Avoid
Steer clear of supplements that mask butyrate’s natural odor with excessive fillers, artificial flavors, or charcoal—this often indicates lower quality or insufficient active ingredient. Avoid products without clear dosing information or those using proprietary blends that hide actual butyrate content. Always check that the specific butyrate form is clearly listed (sodium, calcium, magnesium, or tributyrin) rather than vague terms like “butyrate complex.” Also be wary of extremely cheap products, as quality butyrate requires proper manufacturing and storage.
Side Effects and Precautions
Most people tolerate butyrate well, but some experience initial digestive adjustments including increased bowel movements, temporary bloating, mild cramping, or changes in stool consistency. These effects typically resolve within the first week or two as your gut adapts to the increased short-chain fatty acid supply. Starting with a lower dose (half the recommended serving) and gradually increasing over 1-2 weeks can significantly minimize discomfort. Taking butyrate with food also helps reduce any stomach upset.
Some people report temporary fatigue or mild brain fog during the first few days of supplementation. This may occur as your gut microbiome adjusts and your metabolism adapts to using butyrate for energy. These symptoms usually pass quickly and are often followed by improved mental clarity.
Those with inflammatory bowel conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease should consult their doctor before supplementing, as research shows mixed results in IBD populations. If you’re on blood thinners, diabetes medications, or other prescriptions, check with your healthcare provider since butyrate may affect blood sugar levels and has potential interactions with certain drugs. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should always consult a doctor before use, as safety data in these populations is limited. If you have histamine intolerance, start with the lowest possible dose and monitor your response, as some people report increased sensitivity.
FAQs
How much butyrate should I take daily?
Most studies use doses between 300mg and 1,200mg daily for general gut health maintenance, with some therapeutic protocols under practitioner supervision going up to 4,000mg. For standard supplementation, start with the lower end of the recommended serving size on your chosen product and increase gradually based on your response. If you’re addressing specific gut issues like leaky gut or recovering from antibiotics, you may benefit from the higher end of dosing.
When is the best time to take butyrate supplements?
Taking butyrate with meals generally improves tolerability and may enhance absorption. The food in your stomach helps buffer the supplement and provides a more gradual release. Some people prefer splitting doses throughout the day—for example, taking one capsule with breakfast and one with dinner—rather than taking everything at once. If you experience any digestive discomfort, try taking it with your largest meal of the day.
How long does it take to notice results from butyrate?
Many people notice improvements in digestion and bowel regularity within the first 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Initial changes often include more formed stools, reduced urgency, and less post-meal discomfort. More significant changes like reduced bloating, improved gut barrier function, decreased food sensitivities, and better energy levels typically develop over 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use. For optimal gut healing, most practitioners recommend committing to at least 3 months of supplementation.
Can I take butyrate with probiotics?
Yes, butyrate and probiotics work synergistically and are often recommended together in gut healing protocols. Certain probiotic strains naturally produce butyrate when they ferment fiber, so probiotics help support your body’s own butyrate production. Meanwhile, supplemental butyrate provides direct fuel for colon cells and creates a favorable environment for beneficial bacteria to thrive. Taking them together can enhance overall gut health benefits beyond what either provides alone.
Why do butyrate supplements smell bad?
Butyric acid naturally has a strong, pungent odor reminiscent of aged cheese, parmesan, or rancid butter—it’s the same compound that gives these foods their distinctive smell. This odor is actually a sign of an authentic, pure product without masking agents. Companies that completely eliminate the smell often do so by adding fillers, charcoal, or artificial ingredients that may reduce effectiveness. Tributyrin forms typically have significantly less smell than sodium or calcium butyrate, so consider switching forms if odor is a major concern.
Is tributyrin better than sodium butyrate?
Tributyrin offers some practical advantages including better chemical stability, significantly reduced odor, and gradual release throughout the intestines rather than rapid absorption. The sustained release means butyrate reaches more of your digestive tract over a longer period. However, sodium butyrate is more extensively studied in clinical trials, so we have more direct evidence of its effects. Both forms are effective for gut health—tributyrin may be preferable for those sensitive to smell or seeking sustained release, while sodium butyrate is the choice for those who want the most research-backed form.
Final Verdict
For most people seeking comprehensive gut health support, BodyBio Calcium Magnesium Butyrate offers the best combination of potency, quality, and research backing. The 600mg per capsule dose with mineral buffers provides therapeutic levels without stomach upset, and the brand’s decades of experience and clinical research make it a reliable choice for serious gut healing.
If odor is a major concern or you want the most bioavailable form, Healthy Gut Tributyrin-X delivers 99% pure tributyrin in virtually odorless softgels with professional-grade quality. For budget-conscious shoppers who still want excellent results, BodyBio Sodium Butyrate provides the same research-backed quality at a lower price point—and it’s the exact form used in clinical studies.
Those with multiple sensitivities or reactive digestive systems should consider Allergy Research ButyrEn or Nutricology ButyrAid for their hypoallergenic, delayed-release formulations that minimize adverse reactions. And for maximum potency in fewer pills, Tributyrin-Max at 750mg per capsule leads the category and is especially helpful for those dealing with loose stools or rapid intestinal transit. Whichever you choose, consistency is key—commit to at least 8-12 weeks of daily use for best results.
