| S-adenosylmethionine (sam-e) | |||||
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- What is s-adenosylmethionine (sam-e)?
- Important s-adenosylmethionine (sam-e) facts
- Why s-adenosylmethionine (sam-e) is important
What is s-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e)?
S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is a chemical substance which naturally occurs in the body which is involved in many processes within the body.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is naturally produced in the body from the essential amino acid methionine and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the body's main energy production source.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) helps to maintain the structure of cell membranes, assists with immunity and synthesises and breaks down various neurotransmitters and hormones.
SAM-e is also involved in the production of DNA.
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Important s-adenosylmethionine (sam-e) facts
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) was first discovered in 1952
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is involved in synthesising the neurotransmitters dopamine, melatonin and serotonin
- Low levels of folic acid (folate), vitamin B12 or methionine may also be a reason for low levels of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e)
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is involved in the production of cartilage in the body
- S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is not found in any foods
- Although S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) has been widely prescribed in Europe as an anti-depressant for many years, but it was only recently introduced as a dietary supplement in places like Australia and the United States
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Why s-adenosylmethionine (sam-e) is important
Many studies have shown that SAM-e may assist in the treatment of many conditions:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome - improves pain and fatigue
- Depression - treats mild to moderate depression effectively
- Fibromyalgia - improves pain, fatigue and joint stiffness
- Liver disease - protects liver from damage by drugs, alcohol and other toxins
- Osteoarthritis - may reduce pain and inflammation
People taking any type of medication are advised to discuss possible supplementation with S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) before taking it.
references
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Complimentary Medicines Evaluation Committee (Australia)
- TGA Australia
- Biomed Central (USA)
