Optimal Nutrients

DESCRIPTION

SAMe is a natural substance that is found virtually everywhere in the body. SAMe is synthesized from the amino acid methionine, and plays an important role in the biosynthesis of many important body substances, such as neurotransmitters, DNA, RNA, and protein.* SAMe has recently gained attention as a dietary supplement primarily for maintaining healthy joints, healthy mood, and liver health.*

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Healthy Joints* - SAMe supports a higher production of proteoglycan, a component of cartilage, and thus protects the joints and cartilage by reducing normal loss (or turnover) of proteoglycans.* Two decades of research supports the use of SAMe for supporting joint health.*

The largest of the studies on SAMe for joint health involved over 20,000 people and lasted eight weeks. The result of supplementation with SAMe was reported to be good or very good in 71% of people, with 9% reporting poor outcomes. 87% of the people reported to tolerate SAMe use very well, while 5% dropped out of the study due to intolerance, and 2.3% dropped out due to a lack of benefits.*
In the longest of the studies on SAMe for promoting healthy joints, 108 people were followed for two years.* There were no people who dropped out of this study from side effects, and there were no adverse affects reported. Generally, the outcome of the study showed positive results; specifically, there was a significant effect on promoting good joint health.*

Healthy Mood* - The mechanism of SAMe in improving moods is not completely understood, but clinical studies show promise using SAMe.*

There have been several clinical studies using SAMe for maintaining healthy moods, and in 1994 a meta-analysis (a study that statistically analyzes similar components of several smaller studies to give a broader overview of the topic) was published which reviewed the overall efficacy of SAMe clinincal studies for maintaining healthy moods.* Of the thirteen uncontrolled trials studied in the meta-analysis, there was an overall positive response found from the use of SAMe.*

Healthy Liver* - The scientific studies for the use of SAMe in promoting liver health have been "sparse but compelling" according to Dr. Sol Grazi in his 1999 books, SAMe: The European Arthritis and Depression Breakthrough.*

In one double-blind study, 15 people were given SAMe, and levels of I-methionine and ATP, which are liver enzyme precursors, were measured to test effectiveness of the SAMe.* The SAMe group showed an effect on promoting liver health.*.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.