SAM-e or S-adenosylmethionine is the chemical substance formed from the combination of methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). SAM-e is not a vitamin, mineral, enzyme, hormone, nor any nutrient. It is a synthetic chemical normally found in the body which is used in manufacturing many important bodily compounds. SAM-e plays a major role in the production of the genetic material Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) and connective tissues like cartilage. SAM-e is also used in the production of substances involved in the body’s detoxification process. In the brain, it is used to produce and synthesize the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, as well as the hormone melatonin.
Normally, SAM-e is produced by the liver in adequate amounts. Its production is highly dependent on the folic acid and vitamin B12 content in the diet. Insufficiency of these vitamins may lead to poor concentration of SAM-e in the nervous system. Liver cirrhosis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and depression have been linked to low SAM-e concentrations in the brain. Like most substances in the body, the production of SAM-e decreases over age. In the market, SAM-e is manufactured as supplement for use with different health conditions like liver diseases, fibromyalgia, depression, and osteoarthritis. It is also being used as an alternative medicine for pain-relievers like aspirin.
SAM-e Benefits
- SAM-e works as an effective anti-depressant. With increased Sam-e levels in the brain, there is also an increase in the levels of dopamine and serotonin. These two neurotransmitters are very important in the regulation of mood. In European countries, Sam-e is a prescription drug for depression and is an alternative for Prozac.
- SAM-e improves the symptoms of Osteoarthritis. Sam-e acts by promoting the repair and growth of damaged cartilage. It also helps preserve the cartilage’s shock absorbing quality and gel-like nature that gives it a higher resilience to breakage.
- SAM-e prevents and treats liver diseases. According to studies, Sam-e supplementation can prevent and improve symptoms of liver cirrhosis and intrahepatic cholestasis including pruritus, discomfort, and fatigue.
- Compared to Non-steroidal Anti-inmflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), SAM-e supplements can relieve pain without the unwanted side effects.
- In stress-induced asthma, the stress-alleviating abilities of SAM-e may prevent its recurrence.
SAM-e Side Effects and Precautions
- SAM-e side effects can be experienced if it is taken on excessive dosages. There have been reports of nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach, flatulence, and heart burn.
- Before taking SAM-e tablets and capsules, it is best to consult your physician as it may interact with some medications and may affect existing health problems. Patients with bipolar disorder are not recommended to use SAM-e supplements.
- Although a treatment for depression, severe depression is a different case and intake of SAM-e pills should be discussed with your doctor.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also not advised to use SAM-e supplements.
