Is SAMe for Real?

Europeans take this natural remedy for arthritis and depression. They may be on to something

Although I take 250 mg of vitamin C each day, I'm pretty much a skeptic when it comes to dietary supplements. Most of the ones I've seen are basically patent medicines whose proponents, seizing on a few isolated facts about the body, tout a treatment plan that has more to do with magic than medicine. But occasionally a supplement like SAMe (pronounced sam-me) comes along that piques even my interest. It's supposed to combat depression, ease aching joints and possibly revitalize the liver. I'm not convinced these claims are true, but I think they're worth a closer look.

First, a...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!