SAMe: A Supplement for the 21st Century

By Hyla Cass, MD Recently a great deal of media attention has focused on the supplement SAMe, or s-adenosyl-l-methionine. Clinical trials in Europe and the United States have shown that SAMe can be beneficial in modifying brain function, making it a useful supplement for treating depression. SAMe is also shown beneficial in treating degenerative joint disease and liver problems.

Biochemistry and Actions

SAMe is manufactured in the body from the amino acid methionine, with the aid of the co-factors vitamin B12 and folic acid. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can result in decreased SAMe synthesis. As a