MethylSulfonviMethane (MSM)

A Sulfur Compound Essential to Our Physical Well-Being MethylSulfonylMethane (MSM) is an organic sulfur compound found in vegetables, fruit, meat and diary products. It is a crystalline derivative of DMS0, a product which was popular in the alternative health community during the previous decade. Contrary to popular hype, this product is not a natural food (anymore than refined sugar or any other isolated nutrient is a natural food). It does, however, appear to have some potential as a health aid in certain diseases, particularly those involving structural breakdown.

According to some of the popular literature on this substance, MSM is abundant in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower, but is highly unstable and is lost through cooking. (As a side: drinking the liquid used to cook your vegetables or using waterless cookware are excellent ways to prevent the loss of this and other nutrients.)

Since most Americans are on a diet of overcooked and over processed foods, the MSM which would naturally be found in their diet may be missing.

MSM is one of hundreds of naturally occurring sulfur compounds in foods. Sulfur is crucial in the process of maintaining a vital healthy body and mind. It is part of the cellular structure and necessary for effecting repairs in the body. It promotes the health of hair, skin, nails and joints.
Sulfur is also part of our immune systems. It has natural disinfectant properties.

The sulfur in MSM is in a form that the body can easily utilize. There are currently no known side effects of taking MSM. It is water soluble and it appears the body will just flush out any excess that it doesn't need. However, because it is an isolated phyto-nutrient, it is theoretically possible one could take too much. Excess sulfur in the body is known to contribute to skin rashes and intermittent eruptions, scalp problems, systemic itching, taxed liver functions, headaches and over-acidity of the blood (sulfur is one of the acid-forming electrolytes in the blood). While MSM may cause none of these problems, if any of these problems do appear while taking this product, you may simply be getting too much sulfur.

MSM works with vitamins and amino acids to help build healthy cells. If we do not have enough MSM in our bodies they are unable to build these cells and various health problems can result. MSM is one of the important phyto-nutrients (plant nutrients) we are discovering in our foods. Science is now beginning to recognize that food contains many substances besides vitamins and minerals which contribute to our health. Eating a wide variety of natural foods helps to ensure that we are getting all of the substances our bodies require for optimal health.

MSM is a supplement people can use to help makeup for the poor quality of food they eat. However, keep in mind that MSM is only one of hundreds, if not thousands of substances found in our foods which probably contribute to good health. So. it shouldn't be taken as an excuse for not eating properly.

MSM is reported to be most effective when taken with protein, vitamin C and trace minerals, the other nutrients known to help rebuild tissue.
Taking about 1000 mg. of MSM for every 30 pounds of body weight (taken two or three times throughout the day) is a good amount, although you may wish to start with a smaller dose and work up.

8 Science-Backed Benefits of MSM Supplements
1. Can Decrease Joint Pain, Which Could Improve Your Quality of Life

2. Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects, Such as Increasing Glutathione Levels

3. Can Speed Recovery After Exercise by Reducing Muscle Damage and Stress

4. Helps Alleviate Arthritis Symptoms by Reducing Pain and Stiffness

5. May Help Relieve Allergy Symptoms by Reducing Inflammation

6. Can Boost Immunity and Help You Stay Healthy

7. Could Improve Skin Health by Strengthening Keratin

8. May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties