SAMe helps maintain mitochondrial function at peak levels, thus increasing energy production in the brain. In addition, SAMe has antioxidant properties, protecting brain tissues against damage from lipid peroxidation. SAMe has a host of antiaging benefits with virtually no serious side effects. It improves liver function, enhances cognition and protects the brain, reduces the symptoms of arthritis, may have a role to play in preventing heart disease and affects some basic mechanisms of the aging process. It is considered to be the day-time equivalent of melatonin.
SAMe works in unison with melatonin to coordinate day-night natural rhythms in the body.
Also, SAMe is important in the synthesis of melatonin. The enzyme MAT which is necessary for the production of SAMe was also found to be low in the red blood cells of patients suffering from depression. Lack of folic acid or of vitamins B6 and B12 may also cause low SAMe concentrations in the brain. These vitamins play an essential part in the metabolism of SAMe. Depressed patients frequently turn to alcohol for relief of their problems but this actually worsens their condition.