BioCeuticals backs SAMe clinical trial for healthy mood maintenance

Monthly Research Insight for November

BioCeuticals back SAMe clinical trial for healthy mood maintenance

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2007 National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing suggests that just over half the population will maintain a healthy mood throughout their life.1

Among the general public, there is interest in the use of nutraceutical supplements to help increase this number. For example, some nutrients are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters which are substances produced by the brain to help maintain healthy mood.

Preliminary research has provided exciting evidence of the effect that nutraceuticals can have on maintaining healthy mood. To provide more scope to this research, BioCeuticals is providing support for researchers at the University of Melbourne and the University of Queensland who are investigating the role of nutraceuticals in supporting a healthy mood and emotional outlook.

The randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will be conducted for eight weeks and will aim to compare the efficacy of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) on its own versus a combination of SAMe and other nutraceuticals to placebo in adults.

The combination nutraceutical will include nutrients and cofactors to support important neurobiological pathways, including SAMe, folinic acid, EPA and zinc.

Changes will be assessed and scores taken at the start and end of the eight week protocol. Participants will also have bloods assessed for key biomarkers.

This National Health and Medicine Research Council funded trial aims to demonstrate the effect of SAMe and/or the combined SAMe and nutraceuticals in the maintenance of healthy mood.

Always speak to your healthcare practitioner when considering supplementation. When taking supplements, make sure to always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare practitioner. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Reference
1. National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2007.