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Sulphur

Also known as: Methylsulfonylmethane, MSM, Dimethyl sulfone, Methyl sulfone, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Overview

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organosulfur compound that is used as a dietary supplement. It is a naturally occurring substance found in humans, animals, and plants. MSM is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it a popular supplement for joint health. It is synthesized from dimethylsulfoxide and hydrogen peroxide. As a supplement, MSM is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and creams. Research on MSM is growing, with studies focusing on its efficacy for joint pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress. While some studies show promising results, others indicate limited clinical significance, particularly for pain relief in osteoarthritis. It is generally considered safe with minimal side effects, but pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Benefits

Studies suggest that MSM can reduce joint pain and inflammation, improve antioxidant capacity, and decrease muscle soreness after exercise. It may also reduce oxidative stress markers like MDA and increase glutathione levels, enhancing the body's antioxidant defenses. Athletes and individuals with joint issues may particularly benefit from MSM supplementation. Some studies have shown non-significant reductions in osteoarthritis pain, indicating that the clinical significance is debated. However, benefits may be observed within weeks of supplementation, making it a potentially useful addition to a joint health regimen. Research quality varies, with some studies showing promise and others indicating limited clinical significance.

How it works

MSM acts as an antioxidant, potentially enhancing the body's antioxidant defenses by increasing glutathione levels and reducing oxidative stress markers. It interacts with the immune system by modulating inflammation and oxidative stress. While specific molecular targets are less clear, MSM may influence pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress. It is absorbed well and can pass the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to exert its effects throughout the body. Its mechanism of action primarily involves reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in joint pain and muscle soreness.

Side effects

MSM is generally considered safe with minimal side effects. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, may include gastrointestinal issues. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of individuals, may include allergic reactions. Serious adverse effects are rare, occurring in less than 1% of users. There is limited data on significant drug interactions. No well-documented contraindications exist, but pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use. Overall, MSM has a favorable safety profile, but individuals should be aware of potential gastrointestinal discomfort and rare allergic reactions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of MSM typically starts at 500 mg per day. Commonly, it is used at 3 g per day, and it is generally considered safe up to 6 g per day. MSM can be taken at any time of day. It is available in capsules, powder, or cream. Absorption is generally good, but specific cofactors are not well-documented. While MSM is generally safe, it is important to adhere to recommended dosage ranges and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially for long-term use.

FAQs

What is MSM used for?

MSM is often used for joint health and may help reduce muscle soreness after exercise due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Is MSM safe to take?

MSM is generally safe, but it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for long-term use or if you have underlying health conditions.

When should I take MSM?

MSM can be taken at any time of day, as absorption is generally good. Consistency in timing may help in observing its effects.

How long does it take to see results from MSM?

Improvements in joint health may be noticeable within weeks of consistent supplementation with MSM.

Is MSM a direct source of sulfur?

No, MSM is not a direct source of sulfur but contains sulfur in a bioavailable form, contributing to its potential health benefits.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5372953/ – This review provides a comprehensive overview of MSM's potential benefits and safety. It highlights that MSM exhibits antioxidant properties and may improve joint health, though it also notes variability in study outcomes, suggesting the need for further research to confirm its efficacy across different conditions.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3135791/ – This meta-analysis, involving 326 patients across three trials, examined the effects of MSM and DMSO on osteoarthritis pain relief. The key finding was a non-significant reduction in pain, indicating mixed results. The study was noted for its high methodological quality but also acknowledged heterogeneity among the included studies as a limitation.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324544 – This article provides an overview of MSM, discussing its potential benefits for joint pain, inflammation, and exercise recovery. It highlights that MSM is generally considered safe and may offer relief for various conditions, but emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
https://examine.com/supplements/msm/research/ – Examine.com provides a summary of research on MSM, covering its effects on joint health, inflammation, and oxidative stress. It notes that while some studies show promise, the evidence is not conclusive, and further research is needed to fully understand MSM's benefits and optimal usage.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1093/ecam/nep045 – This study on exercise-trained males found that MSM reduced pain and discomfort after exercise. The study involved 24 participants over 14 days and showed promise for reducing exercise-induced pain. However, the small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.