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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Butyrate and Butyric Acid?

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The main difference between butyrate and butyric acid lies in their chemical structure and properties. Butyrate is a salt or ester of butyric acid, while butyric acid is a carboxylic acid with an unpleasant odor and taste. Here are the key differences:

  • Chemical Structure: Butyric acid (C3H7COOH) is a straight-chain fatty acid with four carbon atoms in its structure, including a carboxyl group. When a proton is removed from the carboxylic acid group in butyric acid, it forms the butyrate anion.
  • Conjugate Base: Butyrate is the conjugate base of butyric acid, which is formed when a proton is removed from butyric acid.
  • Fermentation: Sodium butyrate, a common form of butyrate, is synthesized in the intestines and is responsible for the fermentation of indigestible fiber from complex carbohydrates.
  • Gut Health: Butyrate is essential for the proper functioning and maintenance of the colon walls. It serves as a source of energy for colonocytes, or intestinal epithelial cells.
  • Food Sources: Butyric acid is found in animal fats and vegetable oils, while butyrate can be synthesized by intestinal bacteria and is an active ingredient in certain supplements.

In summary, butyrate and butyric acid are related but distinct molecules, with butyrate being a salt or ester of butyric acid. They play different roles in the body, with butyrate being essential for gut health and butyric acid serving as a source of energy for colonocytes.

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  • What is the Difference Between Butyrate and Butyric Acid?
  • Comparative Table: Butyrate vs Butyric Acid

    • Comparative Table: Butyrate vs Butyric Acid

    Here is a table comparing butyrate and butyric acid:

    Property Butyrate Butyric Acid
    Definition Butyrate is the conjugate base of butyric acid, forming from the removal of one proton from the carboxylic acid group in the butyric acid molecule. Butyric acid is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid that is butane in which one of the terminal methyl groups has been oxidized to a carboxy group. It is also known as butanoic acid.
    Form Salt, which is a combination of butyric acid and a base (e.g., sodium butyrate or calcium magnesium butyrate). Free acid form.
    pH Butyrate has a higher pH, making it less acidic. Butyric acid has a lower pH, making it more acidic and potentially causing an upset stomach.
    Occurrence Found in butter, rancid cheese, and some supplements. Found in food and many supplements, as well as in butter and rancid cheese.
    Uses Acts as a buffer in the intestine, supporting colon health and overall digestion. Can also be used as a component in fishing bait additives and stink bombs. It is responsible for the unpleasant smell associated with rancid butter and cheese.

    In summary, butyrate is the ionized form of butyric acid, which is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid with four carbon atoms. The main difference between butyrate and butyric acid is that butyric acid is the non-ionized, free acid form, while butyrate is the ionized form combined with a base.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.