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Have You Heard About MSM
MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane has become a very popular dietary supplement for a variety of reasons, read on to learn more.
Where Does It Come From
MSM is an organic sulfur found in fruits, vegetables, grains, milk and in the urine of animals. It is an oxidation product of DMSO (Dimethyl sulfoxide) and a source of sulfur used by the body in the production of the amino acids, methionine, and cysteine.
What Does It Do
Most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory, MSM has been studied since the 1970s and research suggests it may be useful for arthritis, interstitial cystitis, allergic rhinitis, and exercise-induced inflammation and this is just the beginning. In the decades since, MSM has been found to help with the following:
Anti-Inflammatory – it permeates cell walls and works to block or inhibit pro-inflammatory factors such as NF –kB, cytokines, and vasodilating agents.
Antioxidant/Free Radical Scavenging- Because of the above, superoxide radicals and nitric oxide are inhibited and antioxidant enzymes can work on cells at a mitochondrial level vs. a chemical one. Because cells are more permeable, toxins and metabolic waste can be moved out.
Immune System Boost- Sulfur-containing compounds like MSM play a critical role in supporting the immune system.
Sulfur Donor/Methylation – Unlike DMSO, MSM does not methylate DNA, which means it does not appear to cause chromosome aberrations. Further study is needed to determine if MSM is a methyl donor.
Common Uses
Arthritis and Inflammation – as stated above, many people have found that MSM is effective in treating arthritis and inflammation.
Cartilage Preservation – Studies since 1991 indicate that MSM can protect cartilage from osteoarthritis.
Improve Range of Motion and Function – Taken daily, osteoarthritis sufferers saw a marked improvement in their condition.
Muscle soreness – After exercise, MSM taken internally can be as effective as an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory as it helps the body rid itself of lactic acid.
Seasonal Allergies – Some studies suggest that 2.6 gms taken daily for thirty days, ease allergy symptoms of seasonal sufferers.
Skin Quality and Texture – By acting as a sulfur donor to both collagen and keratin, MSM has been linked to improved skin condition and appearance; it is used topically to reduce wrinkles, eliminate stretch marks, and treat minor cuts/abrasions.
Hair Growth and Strength - Some claim that MSM promotes hair growth and that it’s effective for the treatment of alopecia. After a few weeks of using MSM, hair, and fingernails are visibly stronger and thicker.
Cancer – Many studies are currently being performed showing that MSM has a positive effect on killing cancer cells in several types such as breast, esophagus, stomach, liver, colon, bladder, and skin.
MSM and Alcohol – Since MSM easily permeates the blood-brain barrier and is evenly distributed throughout, early studies suggested that this could cause alcohol sensitivity. More study on the subject needs to be done about the safety of MSM and recreational alcohol use.
MSM is an amazing supplement and has been deemed quite safe with minimal side effects. As with any supplement, speak to your doctor before adding it to your diet. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding do not use MSM before speaking to your doctor first.
We are in no way making any type of medical claims or giving any sort of medical advice.
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