MSM is the abbreviation for Methylsulfonylmethane, also known also known as dimethyl sulfone. It is not actually a vitamin; it is a naturally occurring sulfurous substance that is found in our bodies. It is also found in foods, such as fruit, alfalfa, vegetables, tea, coffee, fish, grains and milk. The Nutrition Reporter states that MSM is about 34 percent sulfur by weight, and it is also a byproduct of DMSO.
MSM for Arthritis
MSM can be found in supplement form, and it is currently used for a variety of different purposes. According to Penny Kendall-Reed, ND, in her book "Healing Arthritis," the most common reason for taking MSM is to reduce osteoarthritic related pain such as inflammation and swelling of the joints. The Nutrition Reporter also states that MSM may be useful in preventing the breakdown of cartilage and it may be beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis and gout.
MSM in the Diet
Although numerous foods contain MSM, our dietary intake of it is generally very low. Dr. Kendall-Reed states that it is low because MSM is a volatile substance and its therapeutic properties are destroyed when food is cooked, processed or stored for too long. MSM compounds are therefore only retained in unprocessed, whole foods. Since the average person's diet is highly processed, most of us have low stores of MSM in the body.
MSM and Sulfur
No one knows for sure why MSM is helpful to the above mentioned conditions, but researches believe it is likely due to the sulfur that is contained in it, consequently MSM is often used as a supplemental form of sulfur. Dr. Kendall-Reed states that sulfur is essential for healthy connective tissue in the body, including the maintenance of healthy bone cartilage; this may explain MSM's ability to relieve arthritic conditions. According to Elson M. Haas, MD in his book "Staying Healthy with Nutrition," sulfur is necessary for the proper formation of protein, collagen, glucosamine, and it is often known as the "beauty mineral" due to its ability to strengthen skin, and nails. Preliminary research suggests that supplementing with MSM may provide the same benefits.
MSM Antioxidant Properties
Dr. Hass states that due to its sulfurous properties, MSM can be used as an antioxidant supporting supplement, and it can aid the body in detoxification. He further states that MSM has the ability to neutralize numerous environmental toxins in the body, including pesticides and food additives.
MSM for Allergies
Many people with allergies have also found relief through the supplementation of MSM, although scientists have not yet discovered why. The Nutrition Reporter states that it is suspected that MSM blocks cell receptor sites for histamine, which is the substance that is responsible for triggering allergic symptoms. Dr. Haas on the other hand, believes MSM's effectiveness is due to the anti-inflammatory effect that it has on mucous membranes. This effect potentially makes MSM a valuable supplement for the treatment of both food and environmental allergies. For best results, Dr. Hass suggests starting off by taking 1,500 to 1,000 mg capsule of MSM a day, and then working your way up to three to four capsules a day as needed.
Conclusion
Although there is not enough solid research currently behind MSM, many people have claimed a relief of arthritic and allergenic symptoms by its supplementation. There is however a possibility for side effects and negative drug interactions. Be sure to check with your doctor before supplementing with MSM.
References
- The Nutrition Reporter: MSM and DMSO
- "Healing Arthritis;" Penny Kendall-Reed, ND; 2004
- "Staying Healthy With Nutrition;" Elson M. Hass, MD; 2006
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