Histadelia and Methylation. Part III: Forming SAM.

In the next step, methionine is transformed into SAM, the most important methylator in the human body:

  Methionine  --via ATP + magnesium + MAT*--  yields SAM

Problems forming SAM in the brain** (assuming methionine is sufficient):
1 A genetic enzyme disorder. 
2 Scarcity of magnesium.
3 Conceivably, insufficient brain ATP.*** 

Therapeutic Considerations (Walsh)
Give SAMe, perhaps magnesium.
 Methionine and TMG are of little benefit.

Caution: Some psychiatrists warn against giving SAMe to bipolars, even for bipolar depression.

Walsh, on the other hand, states that when you are dealing with histadelics with subnormal production  of SAMe, supplementation is helpful, rather than a problem, as long as introduced gradually, to the level appropriate for the individual. Then, once improvement is established (within a month or so), most patients are tapered off while introducing methionine (which is cheaper).

* The enzyme, methionine adenosyltransferase
** These occur in a small number of histadelics.
***ATP provides energy to our cells. It is formed via glycolysis (carbohydrate to pyruvate metabolism), acetyl-CoA creation, and the mitochondrial Krebbs cycle and electron transport chain. Some of the nutrients involved in this process: vitamins B3 (NADH), B2 (R5P), B5, B6 (P5P), B12, B1, C; biotin, CoQ10, carnitine, alpha lipoic acid, malic acid, magnesium, chromium, sufficient oxygen and antioxidants, and thyroid-support nutrients, as relevant.

To review where we are in the methylation cycle click here.

Reminder: This information is presented for educational purposes only, and is not intended as diagnosis or treatment recommendations for the individual. Even within the histadelic subgroup, each person's biochemical requirements tend to be unique. So if you need treatment for depression, mania, bipolar, or any other medical condition, please consult a knowledgeable physician. 


For info on the role of histadelia in bipolar disorder, see my book, Natural Healing for Bipolar Disorder
In the next post we will talk about what SAM does.