Valerate

Valeric Acid, or pentanoic acid, is formed in small amounts during fermentation of dietary fiber, is important in cholesterol metabolism. The structure of valeric acid is very similar to that of the inhibitory neurotransmitter g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), except for the terminal amino group. Valeric acid is similar to its analogue, valproic acid, which has been shown to increase the production of GABA, resulting in a decreased synthesis of succinic acid. Elevated levels of % Valerate suggest a disruption in bacterial fermentation of protein in the distal colon. Valerate is a product of bacterial fermentation of protein in the colon, and elevated levels can indicate abnormal protein breakdown and digestion. Normal protein digestion typically occurs in the stomach and small intestine, so increased Valerate levels may be linked to issues in these processes.

This secretion causes a subsequent decrease in intestinal pH, which is crucial in preventing an enteric proliferation of microbial pathogens, including bacteria and yeast. Many GI pathogens thrive in alkaline environments. Lactobacilli also secrete the antifungal and antimicrobial agents lactocidin, lactobacillin, acidolin, and hydrogen peroxide. The beneficial flora of the GI tract have thus been found useful in the inhibition of microbial pathogens, prevention and treatment of antibiotic associated diarrhea, prevention of traveler's diarrhea, enhancement of immune function, and inhibition of the proliferation of yeast.

Valeric Acid, or pentanoic acid, is formed in small amounts during fermentation of dietary fibre, is important in cholesterol metabolism. The structure of valeric acid is very similar to that of the inhibitory neurotransmitter g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), except for the terminal amino group. Valeric acid is similar to its analogue, valproic acid, which has been shown to increase the production of GABA, resulting in a decreased synthesis of succinic acid.

Valeric acid has also been associated with irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, colorectal cancer, celiac disease, and autism.

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SCFA supplements are most commonly found as butyric acid salts. Herbal medicines that can affect SCFA levels include berberine, passiflora edulis, Chinese Yam, trametes versicolor extract, lotus seed resistant starch, xylooligosaccharides from corn cobs, coptis chinensis, Reishi mushroom, Poria mushroom, Lingzhi mushroom, Daikenchuto. Sleep, diet, exercise and stress management needs to be evaluated. Be cautious with use of antibiotics

Disclaimer: Before starting any supplement regime, please consult your physician.

Valerate is a Short Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA). It is derived from bacterial fermentation of protein in the distal colon.

SCFAs are the end product of the bacterial fermentation process of dietary fiber by beneficial flora in the gut and play an important role in the health of the GI as well as protecting against intestinal dysbiosis.