Methionine

Overview

Methionine is an essential amino acid that plays a central role in methylation processes. It forms S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), the universal methyl donor that fuels neurotransmitter synthesis (dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin) and drives phospholipid methylation in neuronal membranes. Methionine is converted to SAMe through a process that involves B vitamins (B6, B2, folate, B12) as cofactors. After donating its methyl group, SAMe becomes S-adenosylhomocysteine, which is then converted to homocysteine, which can be remethylated back to methionine in a cycle that requires adequate B vitamin status.

Recipes

5 recipes containing this substance

Black Bean & Sweet Potato Vegetable Chilli

A fibre-rich bean and vegetable chilli with warming spices and slow carbohydrates for steady energy and satiety.

Chocolate Quinoa Crisp Clusters

A delicious cereal-to-snack hybrid with satisfying crunch, steady energy, and a low glycemic profile. Perfect for breakfast or anytime snacking.

Mitochondrial Power Bowl

A nitrate-rich, polyphenol-dense bowl combining leafy greens, beets, berries, nuts, and early harvest olive oil

Rocket Lentil Avocado Midday Salad (Gut-Supporting)

Polyphenol-rich midday salad with quinoa or lentils, vegetables, avocado, and early harvest olive oil

Savoury Greens & Egg Breakfast Skillet

A warm savoury breakfast skillet with eggs, greens, and slow carbohydrates for steady morning energy.

Foods

6 foods containing this substance

Black Beans

Legume with polyphenols and protein; optimal soaking conditions detailed

Chickpeas

Legume providing protein, fiber, folate, magnesium, and B6

Nori

Red seaweed providing iodine and amino acid precursors for creatine synthesis

Quinoa

Pseudograin with magnesium, iron, and balanced plant protein

Tempeh

Fermented soy providing probiotics and enhanced nutrient bioavailability

Tofu

Soy-based protein source with isoflavones and choline

Biological Mechanisms and Implications

Biological Target	Therapeutic Areas	Mechanism of Action
Methylation & One-Carbon Metabolism	ADHD, Alzheimer's Disease, Anxiety & GAD, Depression & MDD, Postnatal Depression (PND / PPD) — Evidence Base	Essential amino acid that forms S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), the universal methyl donor for neurotransmitter synthesis and membrane phospholipid methylation

References

• Methionine is essential and forms SAMe, the universal methyl donor for neurotransmitter synthesis and membrane phospholipid methylation
• B vitamins, particularly B6, B2, folate (5-MTHF), and B12, are essential cofactors in remethylation of homocysteine to methionine, which is converted to SAMe