Clinical trial finds prebiotic complex significantly reduces belly pain in adults with GI issues

A recently published study¹ examined the effects of a prebiotic complex on gastrointestinal issues. As explained in a June 26, 2025, press release, the probiotic complex used in the study, ButyraGen from NutriScience, is intended to generate the short-chain fatty acid butyrate directly in the gut, strengthening the gut barrier, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestive health. ButyraGen also contains tributyrin, a short-chain triglyceride, as well as Sunfiber, a partially hydrolyzed guar fiber, working synergistically to promote production of short-chain fatty acids. The study, “A Novel Direct Butyrate Generator Reduces Belly Pain in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study,” was published in Nutraceuticals in June 2025.

The six-week trial enrolled 595 participants, aged 21 and older with self-reported gastrointestinal issues, who were given either 200 mg ButyraGen daily or a placebo. ButyraGen provided 100 mg of tributyrin per day and approximately 90 mg of prebiotic fiber per day. Changes in gastrointestinal health, including belly pain and digestive health, and quality of life, were measured through questionnaires.

Statistically significant reductions in belly pain were seen in the ButyraGen group compared to placebo, starting at weeks 5 and 6. The improvements were especially significant in women and post-menopausal women. For example, 14% more women in the active group experienced improvements in gas and bloating compared with the placebo group.

Quality of life was also reported to be improved. “By addressing GI symptoms and enhancing comfort, ButyraGen may help individuals maintain regular daily activities, reduce stress associated with digestive discomfort, and improve overall well-being,” the researchers explained in the study. “These findings are particularly relevant given the increasing prevalence of GI disorders in the general population.”

ButyraGen was demonstrated to be very tolerable and the reported side effects were mild or moderate.

“These results validate what we’ve long known: butyrate is essential for a healthy gut, and ButyraGen makes it accessible every single day,” stated Edward Dosz, PhD, study author and the vice president of science and innovation at NutriScience, in the press release. “We’re especially excited about the strong benefits seen in women and post-menopausal women, a population that has been overlooked in gut health research for far too long."

Reference

1. Dosz, E.; Conley, D.; Lelah, M. A Novel Direct Butyrate Generator Reduces Belly Pain in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Nutraceuticals. 2025, 5(14) DOI: 10.3390/nutraceuticals5020014