Forgot to mention, make sure you get
enteric-coated SAM-e. This way the SAM-e stays in pill form until it can be released at the appropriate time in the GI tract, so you don't lose any to FPM or digestive processes prior to the small intestine. I have the Jarrow boxed formulation as well, albeit I take the 400mg dose 2x daily. For those curious, some facts about SAM-e:
What is it?
- SAM-e (S-Adenosylmethionine) is an amino acid derivative that has been clinically proven to benefit brain and joint function. Found in all living cells, SAM-e is also called "activated methionine" since it is formed by reacting ATP and methionine (an essential amino acid). Supplementation with methionine alone does not result in SAM-e elevation, and, in fact, can cause elevation of toxic homocysteine.
Biological impact?
- SAM-e has undergone dozens of clinical trials involving thousands of patients. Researchers studying the beneficial effects of SAM-e have identified the following structure and function benefits of SAM-e:
Joint Strength
- SAM-e supports the production of healthy connective tissue through a process known as transulfuration. In this process, critical components of connective tissue, including glucosamine and the chondroitin sulfates, are sulfated by SAM-e metabolites. SAM-e also increases the production of methyl-thio-adenosine, which may partially account for the joint benefits of SAM-e. The metabolism of SAM-e also results in the production of L-cysteine, an important amino acid in the body used to construct a family of sulfur-containing compounds of critical importance, including glutathione. Some of these compounds are the building blocks needed for the synthesis of cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and the bone matrix.
Liver Function
- SAM-e metabolism supports the synthesis of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione-dependent enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase), which are substances important for liver function. Glutathione in necessary for the scavenging of free radicals produced by glycolysis, the breakdown of carbohydrates for energy. The amino acid taurine is another metabolite of SAM-e metabolism. The glutathione family of compounds and taurine are important for liver detoxification reactions.
Brain Function
- SAM-e supports brain functions by its methylation effects. Methylation is the process by which a four atom appendage (unit of one carbon and three hydrogen atoms) is transferred from one molecule to another. Of all methyl-donating substances known in mammalian metabolism, SAM-e is the most important. The donation of methyl groups affects the proper function of many metabolic processes, including brain function, energy production and DNA metabolism. Neurotransmitters, compounds involved in the brain's cell-to-cell communication, are the products of methylation reactions. These compounds include L-DOPA, dopamine and related hormones, epinephrine, and phosphatidylcholine (a component of lecithin).
Energy Production
- Methylation from SAM-e is critical for proper energy production, because it is needed for the production of creatine. Creatine maximizes physical performance, reduces exercise fatigue and improves recovery after exercise.
Longevity
- Methylation of DNA appears to be important in the prevention of DNA imperfections. The demethylation of DNA is considered a contributor to the aging process. Proper methylation through substances such as SAM-e positively influence longevity.
Edited by Synaesthesiac, 15 August 2013 - 11:52 PM.
