Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring compound found in all sorts of fruits and vegetables and animal products. In other words, humans have been consuming MSM for thousands of years. It has also been studied for many years for health benefits because it contains sulphur which is a building block for lots of tissues in the human body such as cartilage.
One tissue it builds up is cartilage tissue which has fascinated researchers. As we age, everyone is after a supplement that can help their joints. Studies have found that around two grams per day of MSM benefits osteoarthritis and other joint pains.1 The good news about this supplement is that it is readily available at most health food shops and pharmacies. The supplement is also very safe unless somebody has an allergy to a sulphur-based agent.
A recent study has found it has gone one step further and can in fact aid in exercise recovery. In a recent study it was given to runners upon completion of ½ marathon and found that the biochemistry aspects of MSM showed that it reduced inflammation and pain and aided in recovery.2 The author of this article personally takes 1 ½ grams per day because it is a safe and simple supplement that can be taken to improve joint health.
MSM does have some side effects though. One of the side effects is that increases cholesterol. The good news is that MSM (3g/day) increases the good cholesterol HDL,3 which has been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Another side effect of MSM is that it can help reduce wrinkles if you take only 1g/day.4 In the natural medicine realm, we often speak of side effects as being positive and in this case MSM does have some beneficial side effects.
Personally, I believe MSM is a supplement that not only makes you look younger, but may improve your joint health as well as improving your blood lipids, so please consider MSM supplementation.
About the Author, Stephen Eddey
Stephen Eddey is a qualified health practitioner, educator, and consultant with extensive training in chemistry, naturopathy, and health science. He holds an Associate Diploma in Chemistry, a Diploma of Applied Science (Naturopathy), a Bachelor of Complementary Medicine, and a Master of Health Science, with postgraduate research focused on the treatment of obesity using low-carbohydrate diets. Stephen has held senior technical roles within the natural health industry, including Technical Consultant at Metagenics, and has over 10 years’ experience teaching Naturopathy. He currently works as a Consultant with ATP Science in Brisbane and is an accredited member of the CMA, applying an evidence-based, preventative approach to health and education.
The information presented in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult a qualified health practitioner before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have an existing health condition or are taking other medications.