The Benefits of SAM-e

You’ve read about it in the media. Europeans have experienced its health benefits for two decades. Now consumers in the United States have access to a nutrient with groundbreaking potential.

SAMe, a natural compound formed in our bodies from the amino acid methionine, has stirred excitement due to its wide-ranging health effects. SAMe plays a critical role in cartilage formation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that SAMe helps support joint comfort, function, and mobility in the spine, hips, and knees.

SAMe has also been found to support a positive outlook due to its affect on the synthesis and activation of proteins, such as mood-boosting neurotransmitters.

A Multipurpose Nutrient

SAM-e, or S-adenosyl L-methionine, is formed when our bodies combine the amino acid L-methionine with ATP, the primary energy-carrying molecule in our cells. This nutrient is present in every living cell. Because SAMe is involved in so many vital processes, it is important that our bodies produce sufficient amounts. However, SAMe levels tend to decline with age, and can also be affected by dietary imbalances.

To produce adequate amounts, we need to consume not only methionine-containing protein foods, but also foods rich in vitamins B-6, B-12 and folic acid, which are needed to ensure the synthesis of SAMe.

Additionally, SAMe is a highly unstable molecule; therefore, a lot of scientific research was needed to make it available as a supplement. Source Naturals has studied the research and offers this vital nutrient in a form your body can use.

Methylation is the Key

SAMe is known as a “methyl donor.” This means that it works by giving up a piece of itself (a methyl group consisting of one carbon and three hydrogen atoms) to other molecules. This methylation process affects the synthesis, activation, and metabolism of various hormones, neurotransmitters, phospholipids, nucleic acids, proteins, and other biological molecules.

Methylation plays a part in many critical functions, including the maintenance of cell membranes, the removal of toxic substances from the body, and the production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin.

Effective Joint Support

SAMe has been used in Europe for two decades for joint support with positive results. Studies have shown that the breakdown of SAMe generates sulfate groups that help maintain joint cartilage. SAMe also helps to form proteoglycans, which are used to renew the matrix of cartilage. Animal studies show that it increased the production of cartilage-building cells in joints and may help improve joint lubrication also. One study proved that SAMe was more effective than NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) when it came to helping with pain associated with osteoarthritis, with less side effects.

Promotes Mental Well-Being

Studies also show that SAMe helps support a positive outlook. Although the mechanism by which SAMe promotes mental well-being is not known, we do know it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, where it affects the production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters.

SAMe and Fibromyalgia

In fibromyalgia patients, SAMe has been shown to reduce morning stiffness and fatigue, while reducing pain, and improving mental outlook.

Preliminary studies have suggested that SAMe may be helpful for those with fibromyalgia. A small double-blind study evaluated the effect of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) or placebo in 17 people with fibromyalgia, 11 of whom had depression. The number of tender points decreased after SAMe but not placebo. Depression, as assessed by two rating scales, improved after SAMe but not placebo.

Clinically Researched Potency

Source Naturals SAMe is offered in the clinically researched potency of 400 mg per suggested daily use (one tablet). The tablets are enteric coated and blister packed to prevent breakdown and inactivation of ingredients

References

Berger, R. et al. 1987. “A New Medical Approach....” The American Journal of Medicine; 83(5A): 84-88.

Carney, MWP et al. 1987. “S-adenosylmethionine....”The American Journal of Medicine;
83(5A): 104-106.

Konig, B. 1987. “A long-term (two years) clinical trial of oral S-adenosylmethionine....” The
American Journal of Medicine; 83(5A): 89-94.

Stramentinoli, G. 1987. “Pharmacological aspects of S-adenosylmethionine.” The American Journal of Medicine; 83(5A):35-42

Jacobsen S, Danneskiold-Samsoe B, Andersen RB. Oral S-adenosylmethionine in primary fibromyalgia. Double-blind clinical evaluation. Scand J Rheumatol. 20.4 (1991): 294-302.

Tavoni A, Vitali C, Bombardieri S, Pasero G. Evaluation of S-adenosylmethionine in primary fibromyalgia. A double-blind crossover study. Am J Med. 83.5A (1987): 107-110.

Volkmann H, Norregaard J, Jacobsen S, Danneskiold-Samsoe B, Knoke G, Nehrdich D. Double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study of intravenous S-adenosyl-L-methionine in patients with fibromyalgia. Scand J Rheumatol. 26.3 (1997): 206-211.

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