Tributyrin’s Beneficial Effect on Parkinson’s Symptoms: A Promising Advance in Brain Health
Tributyrin supplementation could be key to improving motor symptoms and reducing inflammation in people with Parkinson’s disease. This has been indicated by the latest data presented at the International Parkinsonism and Related Disorders Association World Congress.
What is tributyrin and how can it help Parkinson’s?
Tributyrin is a postbiotic, a type of compound derived from the gut microbiota that provides direct health benefits. In this case, it is a triglyceride of butyric acid, a molecule known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Recent research has linked dysfunction of the gut-brain axis to the progression of Parkinson’s disease, opening the door to new therapies based on compounds that improve gut and brain health.
Study Results: Benefits in Motor Symptoms and Inflammation
A research team at Michigan Medicine, led by specialist Alexis Griggs, conducted a phase 1b pilot study to evaluate the effects of tributyrin in people with Parkinson’s disease. In the study, seven adults with an average age of 65.6 years took 500 mg of tributyrin three times a day for 30 days. Participants underwent baseline and final assessments that included blood tests for inflammatory markers, motor symptom assessments and sleep monitoring.
Main Results:
1. Reducción de Síntomas Motores: La suplementación con tributirina estuvo asociada a una mejora de 3,93 puntos en la escala UPDRS-III, que mide la severidad de los síntomas motores. Aproximadamente el 50% de los participantes mostró mejoras en sus movimientos tras 30 días de suplementación. 2. Disminución de la Inflamación Sistémica: Aunque no fue estadísticamente significativa, hubo una reducción en la proteína C-reactiva de alta sensibilidad (hs-CRP), un marcador clave de inflamación, lo que sugiere un posible efecto antiinflamatorio de la tributirina. 3. Mejora en la Variabilidad del Ritmo Cardíaco Nocturno: Se observó una mejora en la variabilidad del ritmo cardíaco durante el sueño, un indicador de salud cardiovascular y equilibrio nervioso que también puede beneficiar a personas con Parkinson.
Significance of this Study for Parkinson’s Treatment
Although the study involved a small sample size, these preliminary results are promising and support the potential of tributyrin as a supplement in the management of Parkinson’s symptoms. The researchers suggest that a phase 2 clinical trial, with a placebo control group, could provide conclusive data on its efficacy.
According to Griggs, tributyrin could be used as an adjunct to conventional Parkinson’s disease treatment, helping to reduce motor symptoms, improve inflammatory markers and optimise cardiovascular health during sleep.
The Relationship between Butyric Acid and the Gut-Brain Axis
Butyric acid is essential in the gut-brain axis, where changes in gut microbiota can directly influence brain health. In this regard, tributyrin supplements and other butyric acid-derived compounds are considered an advanced way to maintain a healthy gut and support cognitive function.
K-Butyrate: The Supplement That Strengthens Your Gut-Brain Axis
If you’re looking to improve brain health and reduce inflammation through supplementation, K-Butyrate is an excellent alternative. This butyrate-rich nutritional supplement offers the benefits of butyric acid and supports gut wellness, which is key for those looking to optimise their mental and physical health.
K-Butyrate not only acts on the gut microbiota, but helps strengthen communication between the gut and brain, benefiting cognitive function and improving quality of life. Whether to support people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s or simply to promote holistic health, K-Butyrate is an effective and science-backed option.
In conclusion, the research on tributyrin in Parkinson’s reinforces the importance of butyric acid supplementation for neurological health. As science continues to demonstrate the benefits of supplementation, K-Butyrate has established itself as an ally in the care of the gut-brain axis and overall health.
Ref.: Griggs A, et al. Targeting the gut-brain axis in Parkinson’s disease: Preliminary findings from butyric acid supplementation in Parkinson’s disease. Presented at: International Association of Parkinsonism and Related Disorders World Congress; May 13-16, 2023; Chicago. https://www.healio.com/news/neurology/20230516/tributyrin-linked-to-improved-motor-symptoms-inflammatory-markers-in-parkinsons
