Did you know that by the age of 40, approximately nine out of ten people have x-ray evidence of arthritic changes? Many of these people develop significant joint pain later in life.

Natural supplements like SAMe can help slow the process or alleviate the pain. SAMe, otherwise known as S-adenosylmethionine is a form of the amino acid methionine. SAMe is a molecule your body produces to support many vital body functions.

Widely popular in Europe for arthritis, there is evidence that it has the same anti-inflammatory effects similar to ibuprofen:

“Nutritional supplements are often reported as helpful in treating rheumatic diseases. These include products such as S-adenosylmethionine

(SAM-e) for osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia…” (From Arthritis and Rhuematic Diseases)

The wonderful thing about SAMe in comparison to over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs is that it does not carry the risk of stomach bleeding or kidney damage.

Extensive clinical trials of approximately 22,000 patients have uncovered that SAMe is as effective as NSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) in the treatment of osteoarthritis, but is better tolerated. In one specific study, 734 osteoarthritis patients were assigned either placebo, 1200mg of SAMe, or 750mg of naproxen everyday for 30 days1. Results with SAMe were seen by day 30 and were similar to naproxen. However, tolerance of SAMe was far greater with no difference between SAMe and the placebo for the number of side effects.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, SAMe has been shown to rebuild cartilage. When SAMe breaks down in your body, it produces a substance that helps keep the cartilage protecting your joints, undamaged. SAMe is also being used in studies aimed at combating mild depression:

“According to Dr. Michael Roizen of The Cleveland Clinic and Dr. Meehmet Oz of Columbia University Medical School:

A natural amino acid, S-adenosylmethionine treats depression by altering the chemical reaction of neurotransmitters associated with depression. Some authorities currently worry that antidepressants with serious side effects are overprescribed. SAMe seems to have fewer side effects. 800 to 1200 mg daily (on an empty stomach) is the standard dosage…. [in regard to synthetic drugs] SAMe is just as effective for mild depression, without the interactions with other medications.” (From SAMe)

If you have joint problems, speak with your physician about the spectacular benefits of SAMe. SAMe is available from your local health store or click here to purchase from Physician’s Preference.

1. Caruso I, Pietrogrande V. Italian double-blind multicenter study comparing S-adenosylmethionine, naproxen, and placebo in the treatment of degenerative joint disease. Am J Med 1987;83:66-71.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 19th, 2006 at 3:38 pm and is filed under Health & Wellness. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.