Methylation is an essential process needed for maintaining active neurotransmitters, hormones, and phospholipids which help the brain remain in sharp condition. It also increases the function of the cell membrane by boosting the production of an essential constituent, phosphatidylcholine. It stimulates polyamine synthesis which, in turn, enhance phosphorylation of proteins within the neurons, a I therapeutic mechanism of many classic antidepressants. 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.