What is SAM-e?

I finally pulled the trigger and tried , it's only been three days but I'm feeling better, my brain doesn't seem to be pulling an elephant like before and not as irritable, memory is improving, sleep is deep and restful also energy seems to be edging up. I was beginning to think I had the start of Alzheimer's but now think it is low methylation. This stuff is worth a try if you are having brain problems or suspect you have depression.

SAM-E: S-Adenosylmethionine
What is S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e)?

SAM-e (S-Adenosylmethionine) is an amino acid derivative that has been clinically proven to benefit brain and joint function. Found in all living cells, SAM-e is also called "activated methionine" (an essential amino acid) since it is formed by the combination of ATP to methionine. Supplementation with simply methionine does not result in SAM-e elevation, and, in fact, can even cause elevation of toxic homocysteine.
Biological Impact of SAM-e

SAM-e has undergone dozens of clinical trials involving thousands of patients. Researchers studying the beneficial effects of SAM-e have identified the following structure and function benefits of SAM-e:

* Joint Strength: SAM-e supports the production of healthy connective tissue through a process of transulfuration. In this process, critical components of connective tissue, including glucosamine and the chondroiton sulfates, are sulfated by SAM-e metabolites. SAM-e also increases the production of methyl-thio-adenosine, an intermediate that reduces inflammation which may partially account for the joint benefits of SAM-e. The metabolism of SAM-e also results in the production of L-cysteine, an important amino acid used by the body to construct a family of sulfur-containing compounds of critical importance including glutathione. Some of these compounds are the building blocks needed for the synthesis of cartilage, ligaments, tendons and the bone matrix.
* Liver Function: SAM-e metabolism supports the synthesis of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione-dependant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and glutahione-S-transferase), which are substances important for liver function. Glutathione is necessary for the scavenging of free radicals produces by glycolysis, the breakdown of carbohydrates for energy. The amino acid taurine is another endproduct of SAM-e metabolism. The glutathione family of compounds and taurine are important for liver detoxification reactions.
* Brain Function: SAM-e supports brain function by its methylation effects. Methylation is the process by which a four-atom appendage (unit of one carbon and three hydrogen atoms) is transferred from one molecule to another. Of all methyl-donating substances known in mammalian metabolism, SAM-e is the most important. The donation of methyl groups affects the proper functionn of many metabolic processes including brain function, energy production, and DNA metabolism. Neurotransmitters, substances involved in the brain's cell-to-cell communication, are the products of methylation reactions. These compounds include L-dopa, dopamine and related hormones, epinephrine and phosphotidylcholine (a component of lecithin).
* Energy Production: Methylation from SAM-e is critical for proper energy production as it converts guanidinoacetate to creatine. Creatine metabolizes to creatine phosphate, which is important for the recycling of ADP to ATP. Creatine maximizes physical performance, reduces exercise fatigue and improves recovery after exercise.
* Longevity: Methylation of DNA appears to be important in the prevention of DNA imperfections. The demethylation of DNA is considered a contributor to the aging process. Proper methylation through substances such as SAM-e positively influence longevity.


I have had some really good luck with this too though the effectiveness wore off. I should try again though.


If you have anxiety or bipolar, you should not take Sam-E. It can trigger a manic episode in bipolar's and create a worsening in anxiety for people with that.

It's usually only good for typical depression.