SAM-e Kickstart
Rx™
About SAM-e
SAM-e ( S-adenosylmethionine / S-adenosyl-
L-methionine / adomet / ademetionine / SAMe / SAMMY ) is the 'miracle' product
that caused a flurry of 'good press' articles when it was first brought
to the U.S. in 1999.
SAM-e is one of the
critical compounds that is naturally occurring and is produced in our
bodies. In fact SAM-e is found in every living organism. SAM-e has been
available in several European countries for over 20 years as a prescription
drug. It has proven to be effective and is being prescribed for depression,
liver function, and for increased mobility for those with symptoms of
osteoarthritis. In some studies it has been reported to have a lessening
effect on dementia.
SAM-e has been available
in the United States as a dietary supplement since 1999.
We can say that SAM-e in sufficient quantity promotes:
- An improvement
in mood or well-being for most people.*
- An improvement
in liver function for some people.
- An increase in
mobility or a lessening of the loss of mobility that is believed to
result from reduced pain and stiffness in the joints.
MOOD
SAM-e has proven to
have a direct positive impact on most depressive states (with the exception
of manic triggering in bipolar individuals). This impact comes with fewer
and lesser side effects than commonly prescribed tri-cyclic anti-depressants.
SAM-e supplementation appears to have positive and significant results
within one to two weeks.
SAM-e, B-12, and folate
levels are apparently tied together. Depressive individuals frequently
show a reduced level of folate and a corresponding direct reduction in
SAM-e levels. It is for this reason plus the lowering of homocysteine
that folate, B-12, and B-6 supplemention is recommended along with S-adenosyl-methionine.
Methionine has been mentioned as a precursor or needed component of SAM-e
production.
Liver Function
Studies indicate that
liver function can be dramatically improved with SAM-e supplementation
for those that are in need of it. It is suggested that any one with concern
about their liver function study the literature available and consult
with their doctor about the benefits of S-adenosyl methionine. Liver dysfunction
results from many causes including chemical (alcohol and solvents) and
excessive consumption of certain drugs (acetaminophen and steroids) and
lead intake.
Joint Function
SAM-e supplementation
has shown to promote anti-inflammatory and cartilage building properties
which enhance joint health and provide for better mobility. SAM-e supplementation
is believed to increase proteoglycan molecules that are important in the
cartilage building process.
Additional SAM-e
information
SAM-e (S-adenosyl
L Methionine) occurs naturally in most body cells and fluids. It is important
and plays a major role in biochemical reactions. The enzymatic transmethylation
process contributes to the production, activation, and metabolism of DNA,
hormones, neurotransmitters, nucleic acids, proteins, phospholipids, etc...
SAM-e that is made
by the body or resulting from supplementation is metabolized into S-adenosylhomocysteine
by the transfer of a 'methyl-group' to other compounds that accept the
methyl-group (neurotransmitters and phospholipids). Hydrolysis of S-adenosylhomocysteine
results in homocysteine and then cysteine. Cysteine is 'transulphurated'
to sulphates, taurine, and glutathione. With sufficient 'B' vitamins the
homocysteine is converted to methionine, one of the components for the
body to produce more SAM-e.
SAM-e usually produces
minimal side effects. Minor digestive tract discomfort is reported by
a few of the SAM-e users. For these individuals it is suggested that they
take their SAM-e after consuming a small amount of food. SAM-e should
be enteric coated to allow the SAM-e to not be dissolved in the stomach
where the benefical ingredients can be altered by stomach acid.
A person that is young
and in top condition is believed to produce sufficient amounts of the
natural compounds, including SAM-e, and additional oral supplementation
is not believed to be warranted.
* Individuals that
are under medical treatment for bipolar depression should, without fail,
consult with their doctor before taking SAM-e products.
