MSM

MSM stands for Methyl Sulfonyl Methane, a naturally occurring compound of sulfur found in our bodies. MSM can also be found in many common beverages and foods, including milk, coffee, tea, and green vegetables. Because of this, MSM is sometimes called “organic sulfur.”

In its purest form, i.e. chemical form, MSM is odorless, tasteless, white, water-soluble, crystalline, and solid. With the exception of water, it the safest substance in biology, having a toxicity level similar to water.

Health Benefits

Methyl Sulfonyl Methane is a relatively new product in the dietary supplement industry. A form of sulfur, it is found in tissues of all living things. MSM supports healthy connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Because of this, it is linked with conditions such as arthritis, muscle pains, bursitis, et cetera.

MSM can decrease the pressure inside the cell by removing the fluids and toxins inside the cell walls. The sulfur in methyl sulfonyl methane also affects the cell membrane. In this way, it is unique from all other sulfur-based substances. Based on this function of MSM, researchers noted that this substance can provide relief for post-exercise muscle pain. After strenuous work, the muscles of the body produce chemical compounds and toxic substances that can cause pain. By removing these toxins and normalizing the pressure inside cells, MSM presents a potential supplement to soothe soreness of the muscles.

MSM is a key component in most amino acids, which are considered as the building blocks of the muscle nutrient, protein. Researchers at the Oregon Health Sciences University conducted a study on arthritis using mice as their control subjects. They observed that the mice group receiving MSM had “no degeneration of articular cartilage.” Today, it has been reported that patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle soreness, and muscle pain respond to oral MSM.

Methyl sulfonyl methane is considered as one of the most important raw materials for building healthy new cells. It is not a medicine, a drug, or a food additive. It is a food. The body needs it to perform all its necessary functions, replacing old, worn out cells with healthy, new ones. MSM works synergistically with Vitamin C in keeping the skin healthy, resulting in a softer, smoother complexion and stronger hair and nails. For this reason, it is commonly linked with several skin diseases, especially acne, that disorder of the skin resulting in inflammation and pain.

MSM is also associated with diabetes. One of the main components of insulin is sulfur. And since MSM is sulfur-based, many scientists believe that this substance may play a key role in balancing hormonal levels of insulin in the blood. It is also possible that low levels of bio-available sulfur in the cells makes them go rigid and impermeable, thereby reducing their ability to absorb sugar from the blood. Studies indicate the MSM can help cells become permeable, allowing sugar to be absorbed easily and lowering down its levels in the bloodstream.

Production Information

MSM is available in many drugstores as a supplemental drug. It may be sold as powder, lotion (for allergies), liquid, gel, cream, or capsules. Some people have reported that they experienced stomach upsets after taking the supplement. To avoid this, take the drug with or directly after meals. Sometimes, MSM may increase energy levels so avoid taking them too close to bedtime to limit the possibility of insomnia or restlessness during sleep.