S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) is a critical compound in the body that acts as the primary donor of methyl groups for methylation, a biochemical process essential for DNA repair, neurotransmitter synthesis, hormone regulation, detoxification and per the Walsh Approach, regulates serotonin and dopamine reuptake. Without adequate SAM activity, cellular functions like gene expression and antioxidant production are impaired. However, methylation produces S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) as a byproduct, which can inhibit methyltransferase enzymes if not efficiently cleared. Even when methylation cofactors (like B12, betaine and folates) are sufficient, elevated SAH alone can disrupt methylation processes, leading to reduced detoxification efficiency and systemic inflammation. Sodium bicarbonate presents a novel approach to managing methylation by enhancing SAH breakdown and kidney disposal. By neutralizing hydrogen ions, sodium bicarbonate optimizes enzymatic activity for SAH clearance, improves kidney filtration of acidic byproducts, and supports the excretion of toxins through urine and sweat. It also aids toxin neutralization in the liver, making it a versatile tool for reducing the body’s toxic burden.
Everyday exposure to foods, drugs, and chemicals exacerbates the challenges faced by the methylation and detoxification pathways. Processed foods containing preservatives like benzoates, artificial sweeteners like aspartame, and trans fats impair liver function and contribute to oxidative stress. Medications like NSAIDs, antibiotics, and statins overburden liver detox systems and deplete essential cofactors like glutathione. Environmental toxins, including glyphosate in pesticides, BPA in plastics, and phthalates in personal care products, disrupt methylation and liver function while increasing oxidative stress. Sodium bicarbonate, when integrated with dietary changes, methylation support, and detox strategies, can significantly reduce the toxic load, support liver and kidney health, and optimize overall methylation.