MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is an oxidation product of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and a source of sulfur for producing the amino acids methionine and cysteine. MSM is a water soluble white, odorless, crystalline compound that contains 34% elemental sulfur.
Our bodies use sulfur to support blood vessels, joints, and the digestive tract lining. Sulfur also plays a role in the pathways that break down hormones and neurotransmitters. Sulfur is also necessary for making glutathione, the body’s primary intracellular antioxidant (helps the cells get rid of their garbage.) This allows for healthier cell communication and reduces cell damage. Cells keep each other healthy through feedback and signaling, but when communication becomes disrupted, they can no longer communicate. This is a contributing factor to autoimmune disorders, joint pain, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.
MSM does have a mild sulfur taste, but it’s not bad, especially when you start to feel the benefits:
Reduces joint pain from osteoarthritis, and can act as and anti-inflammatory by increasing glutathione, reduces the production of cytokines, and inhibits NF-kB, a protein complex involved in inflammatory responses.
May have Cancer-Fighting Properties:
Several test-tube studies have shown that MSM inhibits the growth of stomach, esophageal, liver, colon, skin and bladder cancer cells (23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source, 27Trusted Source).
A study on mice demonstrated that MSM inhibited the growth of human breast cancer cells.
Improves Skin Health by strengthening keratin and by acting as a sulfur donor to keratin. This, in turn, can help strengthen this important protein.
Can reduce allergy symptoms, like nasal congestion, and itchy/ watery eyes.
MSM is also used as a natural remedy for Alzhiemer’s, constipation, TMJ, migraines, diabetes, high cholesterol, and tendinitis.
There are no clinical studies on MSM and weight loss, only testimonials from people who say MSM has helped them lose weight. Since MSM is important in insulin production and blood-sugar levels, it does affect energy levels and carbohydrate metabolism, and could have an indirect effect on weight loss.
There can be minimal side effects when MSM is taken orally in a dosage of 6 grams daily for six months, but some people may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects such as discomfort.
In my family, we all drink it – even my kiddos!
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