SAMe Supplement Guide: A Remarkable Substance With Many Uses
1. What is it and where does it come from?
SAMe (s-adenosylmethionine) is a naturally occurring longevity nutrient1 that can be produced by the body. It may also be chemically manufactured. As with other substances, aging results in a natural production decline.
Discovered in 1953, SAMe is a precursor to the substances spermidine and spermine. It is manufactured in the body from the the amino acid methionine.
Due to its inherently unstable structure, SAMe is not found in significant quantaties from dietary sources. Therefore, SAMe must be obtained through supplementation.
2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
SAMe is a remarkable substance that is utilized by the body in many ways.
3. Who needs it and what are symptoms of deficiency?
Everyone can benefit from supplementing with SAMe.
Many populations may benefit most from the supplementation of SAMe. To learn about who will benefit, view Clayton South's Health Facts article on SAMe.
Athletes may benefit from SAMe's ability to maintain neurotransmitter balance, liver health and cardiovascular health, as well as its ability to neutralize estrogenic compounds. No studies yet exist to suggest that SAMe can minimize estrogen levels as well as pharmaceutical drugs, but theoretically the minimization of any estrogen may drastically potentate the affects of free testosterone on skeletal musculature.
The general population may benefit from supplementing with SAMe as SAMe plays a key role in maintaining psychological health, and is a longevity nutrient that theoretically will slow physiological hypertrophy associated with aging.
4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
Follow label directions. When used according to label directions, SAMe is a safe product. Rare side effects can include gastrointestinal upset and feelings of nausea. Persons currently taking medications of any type should consult with a qualified medical practitioner prior to SAMe supplementation. Persons suffering from depression, Parkinson's12, Alzheimer's or other physical or mental illnesses should consult with a physician prior to supplementation with SAMe.
5. Where can I get it?
There are different brand names that manufacture supplemental SAMe.
1. What is it and where does it come from?
