I tried SAMe after I was told it gets rid of toxins. Because of all the “cyano” I was getting from the increased number of cyanocobalamin B12 shots my doctor prescribed after she diagnosed fibromyalgia, and, because of my extended exposure to hydrogen sulfide, I thought SAMe would benefit my liver. I felt that my liver was probably overworked.
Happily, SAMe seemed to help, so I made a page about it.
WARNING: The SAMe directions say to take on an empty stomach, which I have always done, with several ounces of water. But on Tuesday I took it with coffee, and within an hour I was getting sick. Within three hours I felt as if I had food poisoning, but I hadn’t eaten anything. I have been very sick for two days, and yesterday was well enough to get my reading glasses so I could read the box. It does say that for some people it can cause gastrointestinal upset, and if it does, to discontinue taking it. I am very sad to have to stop taking it, as it had seemed to be helping. I am very sad I took it with coffee. 6/8/06
SAMe Facts
A powerful, natural nutrient, S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM-e) promotes healthy mood, liver and joint function. Numerous studies going back two decades, including a 2002 study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources (HHS), show that SAMe is quite safe and effective for promoting healthy mood and liver function, as well as joint function.
Higher SAM-e levels in the brain are associated with successful improvement of mood. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that SAM-e takes effect within one week, quicker than drug antidepressants. And unlike antidepressants, SAM-e does not lead to such typical side effects as weight gain, headaches, and sexual dysfunction.
Studies published in the American Journal of Medicine show that SAM-e may benefit joint health, improving joint function and reducing pain. In the liver, SAM-e has been shown to improve the flow of bile and replenish important antioxidants. A double-blind study concerning muscle health published in the Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology showed that 800 mg daily of SAM-e supplementation for six weeks resulted in reduced pain, fatigue, and stiffness, and improved mood.
The typical SAM-e dosage is 400-800 mg daily for promoting a healthy mood, liver and joints.