GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
SAMe a compound made from methionine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – the body’s ‘energy’ molecule. SAMe was discovered by an Italian biochemist in 1952,
and was first studied as a treatment for depression; during
these studies it was found that SAMe also helped to
relieve the symptoms of arthritis. At present, SAMe is classed, along with glucosamine and
chondroitin, as a potential “chondroprotective” agent, i.e.
a substance that not only relieves the symptoms of arthritis
but also helps to slow its progression. However, this
use of SAMe is yet to be clinically proven. The body usually produces adequate amounts of SAMe,
thus there is no dietary requirement. However,
methionine, folate, or vitamin B12 deficiencies can reduce
SAMe levels and as it is not found in significant
quantities in foods, it must be obtained from a supplement.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Numerous clinical studies have found that
SAMe is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. Some trials have found that
SAMe may be useful in the treatment of depression, and certain liver conditions,
for example cirrhosis, pregnancy-related jaundice,
and Gilbert’s syndrome. Three out of four clinical trials found that SAMe significantly improved the symptoms of fibromyalgia. However, all but one of these trials involved the
intravenous or intramuscular injection of SAMe, thus it is
unclear if the results would be replicated with oral
doses.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
known
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
A typical therapeutic dose of SAMe is 400 mg
taken 3-4 times a day.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal
upset. People with bipolar disease should avoid SAMe as it can trigger manic episodes.
Furthermore, people taking antidepressants or the
anti-Parkinson’s drug levodopa should avoid SAMe unless
under medical supervision. People with kidney disease
or liver disease should consult their doctor before taking SAMe.
