SAM-e | S-adenosyl methionine

SAM-e | S-adenosyl methionine

Properties: SAMe is a natural compound that is produced in the metabolic processes that occur in the human body. It is mainly responsible for the stabilization of structures that build cell membranes of neurons. It also contributes to the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones. It should come as no surprise that this compound is a pretty popular dietary supplement used to support the central nervous system. What kind of effects can be expected during supplementation of S-adenosylmethionine? 

In the mental area, it will certainly improve our mood. How so? SAMe stimulates the activity of neurotransmitters that support good mood and provide emotional stability. Beyond that, SAMe is safe when taken at the recommended dosage and does not cause side effects that may occur in case of medications. Improvement of mental comfort is, however, not the only effect that S-adenosylmethionine induces in the nervous system. 

SAMe is also a great support for cognitive functions. The efficiency of thinking depends mainly on the appropriate level of crucial neurotransmitters. And because SAMe stimulates the activity of acetylcholine, the information may be processed more effectively by our brain. What is more, the ability to memorize and reproduce information is also improved. By supplementing SAMe we can feel more energy and our ability to concentrate should be on a higher level. 

Well, so much for our psychology. And what about the body? It turns out that it also could benefit from SAMe properties. What if I told you that SAMe can protect the liver? Well, it can. It protects the hepatocytes from damage Since the liver is one of the crucial organs responsible for “cleansing” the body of harmful substances, it is extremely important for us that this organ is functioning properly. S-adenosylmethionine contributes to neutralizing compounds that could damage sensitive cells building the liver. What is more, it prevents the spread of inflammation, mainly within the bone tissue. For this reason, SAMe is more commonly used as a support in the treatment of bone and joint diseases, mainly due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This compound supports the process of regeneration within joints since it provides methyl groups in the synthesis of articular cartilage. Moreover, it exhibits analgesic activity (comparable to naproxen). So, it improves the functioning of joints, reduces pain and inflammation. Scientific studies prove its remarkable therapeutic effectiveness, mainly in the case of such ailments like osteoarthritis and arthritis without causing any side effects!

Occurrence: S-adenosyl methionine occurs naturally in the human body. It is produced mainly in the liver, while it is stored in the brain and kidneys.

Biochemistry: S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe, ademetionine) is an organic chemical compound that belongs to betaines. It is a derivative of an amino acid – methionine and a nucleoside – adenosine. Chemically, it is a sulfonate betaine. In the human body it is synthesized mainly in the liver from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and methionine. It is a product of a complex metabolic pathway that is widespread in the whole organism. Even though it is, basically, present in every body tissue, the greatest amounts can be found in the liver, adrenal glands and pineal gland. Just like trimethylglycine (TMG), it acts as a donor of methyl groups (-CH3) in methylation – the most important reaction that occurs in the body. Because of that, it supports the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine – the main lipid forming a cell membrane. It also contributes to the production of neurotransmitters – dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline and simultaneously it regulates their activity. What is more, it participates in methylation of DNA – a reaction that regulates the expression of genetic material. 

SAMe positively affects functioning of the liver by protecting hepatocytes (cells that build the liver) and by activating the process of detoxification. In addition, it supports mitochondrial functions and thus improves cell metabolism and increases the level of glutathione (GSH) – a natural antioxidant that prevents damage caused by reactive oxygen species (for example free radicals, peroxides) and toxins.

Fun fact: Even though SAMe is one of the most important compounds that affect many vital processes that occur in the body, it has been identified only in 1952 by an Italian biochemist Giulio Cantoni. During World War II, this researcher moved to the USA where he worked as a scholar at many renowned universities and led the Laboratory of Cellular Pharmacology at the US National Institute of Health (NIH).