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
8 recipes containing this substance
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.
Ginger Yogurt and Blueberries
An Anti-inflammatory polyphenol-rich breakfast bowl with high fibre. Start the day with anti-inflammatory gingerols and omega 3 nuts, blueberry polyphenols, a fibre from steel rolled oats. Great to set up dopamine for focus and attention.
Matcha Mitochondria Smoothie
Mitochondrial energising smoothie rich in polyphenols, magnesium, and antioxidants
Mitochondrial Power Bowl
A nitrate-rich, polyphenol-dense bowl supporting mitochondrial function, ATP generation, and metabolic resilience
Rocket Lentil Avocado Midday Salad (Gut-Supporting)
Polyphenol-rich salad supporting SIRT1 activation and microbiome synchronisation
Salmon Bowl-pistachio-cacao-nibs
A functional ECS-supportive bowl combining salmon, avocado, pistachios, cacao nibs, and early harvest olive oil to help preserve anandamide tone, improve membrane lipid composition, and support gut–brain signaling.
Turmeric Lentil Dahl
Anti-inflammatory curcumin-rich lentil dish supporting gut health, NF-κB inhibition, and SCFA production
Turmeric Milk
A warming drink combining turmeric (curcumin) with milk/fat for enhanced curcumin absorption
Foods
20 foods containing this substance
Almonds
Vitamin E, plant protein, and healthy fats
Beef
High creatine, CoQ10, heme iron, and complete protein
Black Beans
Legume with polyphenols and protein; optimal soaking conditions detailed
Cashews
Plant protein and zinc source
Chia Seeds
ALA omega-3, fiber, and minerals
Chicken
Complete protein with niacin, zinc, and tryptophan
Chickpeas
Legume providing protein, fiber, folate, magnesium, and B6
Eggs
Complete protein with choline, B vitamins, and phospholipids
Flax Seeds
ALA omega-3 and soluble fiber source
Lentils
Legume rich in protein, fiber, folate, iron, and prebiotics
Milk
Complete protein, nicotinamide riboside, and calcium
Oats
Beta-glucans, tryptophan, and B vitamins for gut and neurotransmitter support
Peanuts
Niacin, resveratrol, and plant protein for NAD+ and mitochondrial support
Quinoa
Pseudograin with complete protein, magnesium, and GABA potential in sourdough
Salmon
Oily fish rich in EPA/DHA, protein, and B vitamins
Sunflower Seeds
Thiamine source and sunflower lecithin precursor
Tempeh
Fermented soy providing probiotics and enhanced nutrient bioavailability
Tofu
Soy-based protein source with isoflavones and choline
Walnuts
ALA omega-3, polyphenols, and ellagitannins for urolithin A production
Yogurt
Fermented dairy providing probiotics and complete protein
Biological Mechanisms and Implications
| Biological Target | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|
| Methylation | 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