Butyrate is one of the three most abundant short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by anaerobic bacterial fermentation of polysaccharides/fiber in the colon, where it serves as an energy source for epithelial cells. Butyrate plays a major role in intestinal physiology, supporting both physical and biochemical protective barrier function, bowel motility, nutrient absorption, and immune activity of intestinal cells. It also promotes the proliferation, differentiation and renewal process of the colonocytes. Research suggests that SCFAs produced by intestinal bacteria activate key players in the regulation of energy metabolism in the gut as well as regulate healthy gene expression for mucin production, supporting tight-junction assembly, healthy mucous production, and a healthy intestinal barrier.*