A "methyl" group (CH3) is one of the most basic mollecules in biochemistry. It is a Carbon atom (C) bonded to 3 Hydrogen atoms (H) .
To "methylate" means to add a methyl group to another molecule. This is how we create a new molecule (for example hormones, proteins, DNA, etc.).
It is important to understand that molecules do not just bop into each other. These are very regulated reactions.
Methylation is such a basic, frequent and important reaction in every cell, that the body created a type of "docking station" called SAMe. SAMe binds in very specific ways to other molecules to transfer its extra methyl group.
It is important to understand that molecules do not just bop into each other. These are very regulated reactions.
Methylation is such a basic, frequent and important reaction in every cell, that the body created a type of "docking station" called SAMe. SAMe binds in very specific ways to other molecules to transfer its extra methyl group.
Again, because this is such a common and important process, the body created a "Methylation Cycle" which is a "mini factory" to produce a lot of SAMe, to have it ready for the reactions that constantly take place in the body.
Some of the major reactions that need methylation "factors" include: 1) elimination of toxins; 2) production and breakdown of neurotransmitters; 3) production of energy and cell membranes; 4) regulation of gene expression.
In some people, this "methylation cycle" (the factory for SAMe and other methylation factors) does not work properly. Some of the symptoms (of undermethylation) include: depression and internal anxiety, difficulties focusing (or opposite, a little OCD), headaches or feeling "toxic", allergy-like symptoms (lots of histamine), fatigue, hormonal problems and often a family history of cancer or substance use (self-medication).
Important - I do not recommend taking SAMe by itself. It is best used as part of a plan that treats the entire methylation cycle and the entire person. Please seek professional advice.
Some of the major reactions that need methylation "factors" include: 1) elimination of toxins; 2) production and breakdown of neurotransmitters; 3) production of energy and cell membranes; 4) regulation of gene expression.
In some people, this "methylation cycle" (the factory for SAMe and other methylation factors) does not work properly. Some of the symptoms (of undermethylation) include: depression and internal anxiety, difficulties focusing (or opposite, a little OCD), headaches or feeling "toxic", allergy-like symptoms (lots of histamine), fatigue, hormonal problems and often a family history of cancer or substance use (self-medication).
Important - I do not recommend taking SAMe by itself. It is best used as part of a plan that treats the entire methylation cycle and the entire person. Please seek professional advice.
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