SAMe By Metabolic Maintenance Overview & Drug Interactions

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM-e or SAMe) is a compound that is found naturally in the body and is involved in various processes, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the metabolism of hormones. SAM-e has been studied as a potential treatment for a variety of health conditions, including depression, osteoarthritis, and liver disease. As a dietary supplement, it is most often used for improving symptoms of depression and for osteoarthritis. In regard to depression, research suggests that SAM-e may be more effective than placebo in reducing the severity of depression and may be as effective as certain antidepressants for some individuals. However, more research is needed. Similarly, for osteoarthritis, some studies show that it is as effective in reducing symptoms for some individuals as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen). There are a variety of different forms of SAM-e supplements available on the market, typically different salt forms (e.g., sulfate, sulfate-p-toluenesulfonate, and butanedisulfonate), which may affect how well it is absorbed.