SAM-e: An Amazing Multitasker

Three of the most popular categories here at Evergreen Nutrition are Brain support, Mood support, and Joint support. This newsletter will focus on a supplement with the unique ability to be featured in all three of the above categories. S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM-e) is an amino acid derivative clinically proven to support and improve brain and joint function, along with liver function.

What Is It?

SAM-e is a derivative of the amino acid methionine, which also contains ATP within its chemical structure. It is also referred to as “activated methionine.” It is manufactured by the human body and is found in all living cells. It is stored in the liver and appears to enhance the health of that organ and normalize liver function. With age, people are less able to produce adequate amounts of SAM-e which may lead to declining health. SAM-e is a methyl donor, meaning that it supports methylation, the transfer of a methyl group from one molecule to another. Donation of methyl groups supports numerous metabolic processes including brain function, energy production, and DNA metabolism.

Liver/Digestive Support

SAM-e offers profound support for the liver. It may help to preserve liver cell function and protect liver cells in Hepatitis C patients. It may prevent the liver toxicity of chemotherapy drugs and inhibit alcohol-induced fatty liver, as well as preventing and treating cirrhosis. It stimulates the flow of bile, thereby assisting digestion of fats. Improved bile flow is also crucial for detoxification.

Musculoskeletal System

SAM-e is well-known as a supplement for joint support as it stimulates the production of cartilage. It appears to enhance the differentiation of chondrocytes into chondroblasts. With this mechanism it may alleviate osteoarthritis. (400-1200 mg per day has shown to be helpful here.) As well, it may alleviate fibromyalgia. Improvements include a significant reduction in the number of trigger points, reduction in fatigue, reduction in morning stiffness, and improvements in mood.

Brain Function/Mood

SAM-e supports brain function through its methylation effects. Methylation is required for neurotransmitter production, including L-dopa, dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine, and phosphatidylcholine (in lecithin). Increasing serotonin and dopamine levels contributes to brain health and improved mood. SAM-e may alleviate major depression and it seems to be significantly more effective than pharmaceuticals used for this condition. Doses used range from 400-1600 mg per day. SAM-e may reduce aggressiveness and migraines.

Other Functions

SAM-e enhances the production of many substances in the body. In addition to the production of neurotransmitters, it also helps produce glutathione, phosphatidylserine, and nucleic acids. It also helps convert serotonin to melatonin and norepinephrine to adrenalin. It may reduce elevated homocysteine and bilirubin levels. It has shown promise in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and Lou Gehrig’s disease.

What We Have For You

 

Evergreen Nutrition carries SAM-e from several companies. Dosages range from 200-400 per tablet.

JARROW SAMe ~ NATURALLY DERIVED ~ GLUTEN FREE ~ VEGAN ~ ENTERIC-COATED

 

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