MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) Review & Information: The Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agent

MSM, or methyl sulfonyl methane, is a naturally occurring compound that is present in plants and animals. It is a form of sulfur that has significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Levels of MSM in the human body are highest in infancy and decrease with age. Whole fruits, vegetables, grains and milk are all dietary sources of methyl sulfonyl methane, underscoring the importance of a whole foods diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables. MSM is also available in supplement form. It is widely used by athletes looking to add something extra to a glucosamine and chondroitin regimen for joint support.

All living organism contain sulfur, the compound from which methyl sulfonyl methane is derived. MSM is the form of sulfur that is active in the body, meaning it is the form that provides the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits mentioned above. MSM plays a vital role in creating healthy cells without which the body becomes more easily susceptible to illness, pain and injury. Cells are constantly being regenerated in the human body, so and adequate supply of MSM can help ensure that newly created cells are healthy cells.

MSM is an important constituent of teeth, bones and connective tissue, and it also plays a vital role in carbohydrate metabolism. In addition, the sulfur in MSM is used to create proteins that form muscles, skin and hair. Further, without a bioactive form of sulfur, insulin production can decrease. This may make MSM of added benefit to people with diabetes, and it may even facilitate the production of enough insulin to reduce the need for synthetic insulin injections.

As a free radical scavenger, MSM can correct cell damage and help boost the immune system so that the body can heal from a variety of conditions. It can also help protect the lining of the stomach by controlling acidity and preventing parasites from hosting there. MSM may also help to detoxify the blood and increase circulation. It reduces inflammation and prevents muscle damage as well.

It is also believed that MSM can improve muscle flexibility and facilitate wound healing after surgery. Clinical evidence supports the benefits of MSM in helping to alleviate the pain of arthritis, control cystitis, and treat allergies. A recent study in which human subjects with knee pain from osteoarthritis were given either a placebo or supplements of MSM found significant pain relief among the patients who took MSM. Another study showed a reduction in allergy symptoms among subjects who took MSM supplements.

The FDA-approved medication dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), which is used to treat bladder infections, is converted to MSM in the body. This suggests that MSM may be useful in helping people with this type of infection.

What about MSN Side Effects?

MSM is sold as a dietary supplement and has no known serious side effects. It is sometimes irritating to the stomach, but people who have this type of reaction can lower the dose until they are able to tolerate it. The usual dose is between 2 and 3 grams per day, but it is best to follow the product instructions or the advice of a medical professional when taking MSM. As with any dietary supplement or medication, the lowest effective dose should be used.

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