Sulfur is a mineral that is present in certain food sources. Sulfur plays an important role in maintaining the health of your connective tissue including ligaments and cartilage. Dimethyl sulfoxide, commonly called DMSO, and methylsulfonylmethane, known as MSM, are the two forms of sulfur. Although the MSM form seems to be safe, ingesting the DMSO form may cause several side effects including diarrhea.
Sulfur
Natural sources of sulfur include milk, certain grain products, vegetables and fruits. These foods contain the MSM form of sulfur. This form of sulfur is the one that provides known health benefits. DMSO comes from a byproduct left over from producing paper products. It is a common ingredient in industrial solvents and cleaners. Some topical solutions and oral supplements contain DMSO, although the only approved medicinal use of this ingredient is for the treatment of interstitial cystitis, a bladder condition.
Side Effects
MSM sulfur has no known side effects, but consuming DMSO sulfur can lead to diarrhea. Taking this form of sulfur may also cause other side effects such as vomiting, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness. Although some studies suggest that taking DMSO may help minimize the pain and swelling of arthritis, scientific research is inconclusive, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).
Dosage
Most people consume adequate amounts of sulfur through a balanced diet and there are no guidelines regarding a recommended intake for this nutrient. The UMMC recommends taking 1,000 to 3,000 mg of the MSM type of sulfur each day to help treat arthritis, or using a topical solution that contains 25 percent of DMSO on the skin up to three times each day.
Precautions
In addition to causing diarrhea, taking DMSO as a sulfur supplement may also increase the effects of certain drugs such as sedatives, steroids and blood thinners. Talk to your doctor before taking sulfur supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a health condition. Never consume industrial grade DMSO because it may contain other substances or toxins. Continual diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Although taking DMSO may be the reason for your diarrhea, other causes, such as Crohn's disease or inflammatory bowel disease, may be responsible for your symptoms. Contact your doctor if the diarrhea last longer than a few days or if you notice blood in your stool.
References
- American Cancer Society; DMSO; Nov. 1, 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Sulfur; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; May 6, 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Diarrhea; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD,; March 10, 201
- "Prescriptions for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stenger, M.D.; 2004
