SAMe

 

SAMeTM

(S-Adenosyl Methionine)

400mg Active

 

SAMe has been used in Europe for over two decades where it has been the subject of numerous clinical studies. SAMe has also been favorably reviewed in major medical journals.

 

At WOCA it has been used since 2002. Rarely has it not been useful.

 

What is SAMe?

SAMe, or S-Adenosyl Methionine, is a substance synthesized from methionine (an amino acid) in the body. Children have seven times more SAMe than adults. Men have higher quantities of SAMe than women. Depression is linked to low SAMe levels in people of all ages. People suffering from Alzheimer’s also show lower levels of SAMe. An exogenous (produced outside of the body) form of SAMe was developed in the mid-seventies.

 

What does SAMe do?

SAMe is a “methyl donor,” playing a key role in the methylation process in the body. Methylation is a basic chemical reaction that triggers many vital biological responses throughout the body. SAMe, as a methyl donor, donates methyl groups to different molecules. SAMe helps methylate DNA, protein, and phospholipids. SAMe, through a process called transulfuration, helps the body’s cells produce glutathione, an essential compound for the immune system and the liver, where it helps in the important job of detoxification. It is involved in over 40 biochemical reactions in the body.

 

How can SAMe help me?

 

SAMe and Mood

As a Methyl donor, SAMe plays a vital role in the production of norepinephrine and serotonin, neurotransmitters important in regulating mood. SAMe also helps in the methylation of phospholipids helping to keep cell membranes receptive to neurotransmitters. SAMe can also boost the production of phosphatidylserine, a phospholipid that plays a role in memory and mood.

 

SAMe and Joint Health

In studies SAMe was shown to increase the production of chrondrocytes, the cartilage producing cells in joints. Proteoglycans, molecules important to the lubrication of joints, appear to remain stable, maintaining their effectiveness, with the help of SAMe.

 

SAMe and the Liver

As stated earlier, SAMe helps the body produce glutathione, an important substance to the chemical processes of the liver. Glutathione helps the liver detoxify alcohol, drugs, and poisons such as insecticides. Glutathione helps make toxic substances water-soluble allowing these substances to be cleansed from the system.

 

What are the side effects of SAMe?

In very rare cases SAMe may cause some slight stomach irritation. This can usually be rectified by taking SAMe together with a light snack. SAMe may also be an appetite suppressant.

 

Which SAMe should you take?

Be sure to look for SAMe in enteric coated tablet form. Enteric coating ensures the proper and safe absorption of supplemental SAMe by the body. SAMe is available in two salt forms tosylate and butane disulphanate. While both are stable, the tosylate form is backed by over twenty years of research for safety and effectiveness. In addition the tosylate form is widely used in pharmaceutical products. Do not buy this product from Asia!

 

How should I take SAMe?

SAMe should be taken on an empty stomach for maximum absorption. SAMe supplementation can be divided over the course of the day, (Le. before breakfast and before lunch.)

 

Mood and Emotional Well-being

Take 1 tablet (400 mg) a day for the first week. If after the first days the desired benefits are not achieved you may gradually increase your level of supplementation. In the second week, take 1 tablet twice a day (800 mg). You may increase your intake of SAMe to as much as 1 tablet four times a day at the end of the third week for a maximum of 1600 mg. A month or two after you have achieved you desired results, you can try to decrease your dosage to a maintenance level of 400 mg to 800 mg daily.

 

Joint Health and Comfort

Take 1 tablet (400 mg) a day for the first week. If after the first days the desired benefits are not achieved you may gradually increase your level of supplementation. In the second week, take 1 tablet twice a day (800 mg). You may increase your intake of SAMe to as much as 1 tablet four times a day at the end of the third week for a maximum of 1600 mg. A month or two after you have achieved you desired results, you can try to decrease your dosage to a maintenance level of 400 mg to 800 mg daily.

 

Healthy Liver Function

Take 1 to 2 tablets a day (400 mg - 800 mg)

 

How does SAMe interact with medication?

There are no known adverse interactions between SAMe and any prescription medication. However, if you are taking any medication please consult your physician before taking SAMe.

 

Who should not use SAMe?

If you are suffering from bipolar or manic depression do not use SAMe.