MSM

MSM is increasingly at the center of healthcare interest these days. The results achieved with MSM are remarkable.

What are the qualities of this product and how can you benefit from it?

MSM is the abbreviation for methylsulfonylmethane or organic sulfur. After water and sodium, our body consists mainly of MSM. MSM is found in fresh foods, but is lost when these foods are lightly processed. MSM is a mineral that is mainly found in fresh, raw foods such as fruit, vegetables, meat, milk and seafood. Most people have a sulphur deficiency because they rarely or never eat raw fish or meat and only eat cooked vegetables. MSM is found in almost all green vegetables and fruits, in algae, various fruits, vegetables and in small amounts in cereals. MSM is lost when these foods are heated or dried out.

MSM primarily has an anti-inflammatory effect, is used against allergies and autoimmune diseases and helps with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the musculoskeletal system and the skin.

Facts

• Sulphur is an important building block of enzymes and immunoglobulins and is important for the formation and nutrient balance of connective tissue, hair and nails.
• MSM is a component of some vital amino acids. It forms the flexible link between the proteins in our muscle tissue. It keeps the cell walls in our body porous so that nutrients and water can be transported and toxins removed.
• MSM is anti-inflammatory and enables the body to restore damaged cells and tissue structures.
• MSM therefore also has a pain-relieving effect on inflammatory processes in joints, tendons, bursae, intervertebral disc problems and numerous other processes in the musculoskeletal system.
• For athletes, MSM helps to relieve stiffness and pain in overstrained ligaments, muscles and joints.
• MSM is also considered an anti-allergic agent. It occupies the receptors in the mucous membranes so that allergens can no longer attack.
• In addition, MSM helps with numerous problems in the gastrointestinal tract such as diarrhea, constipation and hyperacidity (MSM balances the pH value without side effects) as well as against a variety of parasites.
• MSM is highly bioavailable and is an essential (vital) food component.

It has been known for centuries that sulphur-containing medicinal springs provide relief from many ailments. Sulphur compounds have been used for many years as antibiotics (sulphonamides) to combat bacterial infections. The human body produces new cells every day. If a cell dies, it is replaced by a new one. Without the required amount of MSM, the cell is absorbed into the connective tissue, but it becomes hard. The flexibility of the tissue thus decreases and problems with the lungs and other organs can occur. The sulphur-containing proteins found throughout the body are mainly found in the epidermis near the hair follicles, in the epithelia of the bronchial tubes, in the intestinal mucosa and in large quantities in the fingernails. The concentration of sulphur is highest in our fingernails compared to the rest of our body.

MSM is said to have anti-inflammatory properties

Relieve asthma, arthritis, inflammation, constipation, candidiasis, stimulate the breeding cycle, relieve muscle cramps and back pain, help heal muscles, increase energy, alertness, mental calmness and the ability to concentrate. MSM frees the body from free radicals. In patients suffering from chronic or serious musculoskeletal complaints, MSM leads to a noticeable or complete alleviation of symptoms. MSM supports the liver in the production of choline, monitors the acidity of the stomach and reduces the risk of stomach ulcers, forms a layer in the gastrointestinal tract so that parasites cannot settle here, reduces allergic reactions to medication, stimulates insulin production and is vital for carbohydrate metabolism. It also blocks the pain reaction of healthy tissue. MSM relieves pain in arthritis and inflammation, as there are only a few nerves in bones. The pain caused by these diseases originates in the soft tissue surrounding the bone. Aspirin is often taken as a painkiller so that the nerves are blocked. MSM, however, can relieve the inflammation itself and thus lead to healing of the muscles. MSM can also counteract scar tissue, as it changes the bonds in collagen, the building block of scars.

MSM rids the body of toxins and stimulates blood circulation. Without the required amount of MSM in our body, the amino acids supply a vast amount of building materials to the glands without the required enzymes being produced. When our bodies are deficient in sulfur, the risk of disease and chronic ailments increases.

For general use, MSM should be taken as a nutritional supplement. MSM is essential for the synthesis of collagen, i.e. for the formation of skin, hair and nails. MSM keeps the cells flexible and thus the tissues soft - "the beauty mineral". MSM is the transport molecule for sulphur or a source of sulphur, which is essential for the assimilation of the essential amino acids methionine and cysteine. In addition, the molecular structure of insulin is made of sulphur and other proteins, catalysts and enzymes are also made of it. Proteins are vital for the proper functioning of cell metabolism and the formation of flexible tissues. Good protein synthesis can only be achieved with MSM.

At higher levels, MSM functions as a safe and effective agent that can be used for various purposes. Unlike DMSO, MSM can be included in a special diet plan. In addition, MSM is odorless and it neutralizes the toxicity of anticholinesterase so that the body is protected against insecticides. When taken orally, MSM alleviates physiological reactions to stress, for example digestive disorders, inflammation of the mucous membranes, muscle and bone pain and infectious allergens. MSM also helps to strengthen the immune system via a natural vitamin. MSM is also known for its non-toxic effect in children, adults and the elderly.

MSM also alleviates digestive problems that can occur, for example, after taking aspirin or other medicines or in the case of parasitic infections. MSM also helps with intestinal complaints such as diarrhea, chronic constipation, nausea, stomach acid and/or pain in the stomach area or inflammation of the mucous membranes. MSM can also be used against arthritis. Even better results are achieved with the combination of MSM and ascorbic acid (vitamin C extra). This combination has proven to be particularly effective in combating calf cramps. Athletes, for example, often suffer from painful cramps during their sporting activities. Migraine patients also experienced noticeable improvements. In arthritis patients, the pain and stiffness in the limbs was alleviated and swelling and inflammation decreased.

Normally, one dose of MSM is not enough to alleviate the symptoms. Noticeable results only appear within 2 to 21 days (in some cases longer). Daily doses of between 250 to 500 mg are recommended in combination with glucosamine, vitamin C, proanthocyanidin and bromelain (the dose can be increased as desired). The effectiveness of MSM is further increased if 100 mg or more of vitamin C is also taken. In a study of MSM, Dr. Stanley Jacob of the University of Oregon Medical School concluded that this mineral is as safe (in small doses) and important to our diet as vitamin C. MSM is less toxic than ordinary table salt and there are no side effects even at high doses. The human body eliminates excessive doses within 12 hours and overdosing is not possible (Mindell, 1997). Dr. Stanley Jacobs (1993) of Oregon Health Scinece University, who has been studying MSM for 20 years and has treated over 1000 patients, describes MSM as a structural component for the formation of all connective tissue and for the formation of glucosamines, which give cartilage tissue structure and resistance. MSM is equal to known medications (ibuprofen) when it comes to reducing symptoms - but has no side effects (Withaker, 1997). It should be noted that vitamin C further increases the absorption of MSM. In Dr. Lawrence's studies, 2250 mg MSM was used for 6 weeks. The average reduction in pain was 82%. Pain-relieving effects generally only set in after 3-4 weeks of use - with rheumatoid arthritis, however, the first effects are noticeable immediately, or after 3-4 days. Other areas of application for MSM mentioned in the literature are

• Headaches & back pain
• Allergies
• Post-traumatic inflammation and sports injuries
• Fibromuyalgia
• Tendonitis and bursitis
• Hyperacidism

Osteoarthritis: The usual treatment for osteoarthritis consists of administering pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs, which often have unpleasant side effects. In several studies, MSM had the same effects as commercially available drugs and was extremely well tolerated. Rheumatoid arthritis: 40 percent of all people over the age of 65 suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. MSM stops swelling and inflammatory reactions, relieves pain and prevents stiffening of the joints.

Breast and colon cancer: Animal studies have shown that MSM can suppress the onset of breast cancer and colon cancer. MSM had no toxic side effects. In terms of human medicine, this means that taking MSM - especially in conjunction with other cancer prevention therapies - could prevent or at least delay the onset of all types of cancer.

Emphysema/lung disease: Studies have shown that MSM can help with many lung conditions. Bronchitis, shortness of breath and smoker's cough could often be completely cured with MSM therapy in combination with specific exercises and diet.

Systemic lupus erythematosus - SLE: SLE is an autoimmune disease characterized by fever, fatigue, painful joints and uncomfortable skin rashes. The heart, lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and brain can also be affected, sometimes with a fatal outcome. In animal experiments, MSM reduced the mortality rate by 75 to 100 percent. Corresponding trials on humans are underway.

Muscle pain: MSM has been shown to bring about significant improvements in aching muscles or diseases of the skeletal muscles. If vitamin C was also administered, the healing effect was faster and more effective. MSM is often used by athletes and sports physicians. It helps with overtrained muscles, cramps, injuries and overexertion. The convalescence time is shortened and injuries heal more quickly.

Parasites: Skin and foot fungi can be treated well with MSM. It is also effective against giadiasis (a disease caused by intestinal flagellates), trichinae and worm infestations.

Skin, hair and nails: MSM increases the elasticity of the skin and connective tissue. MSM has also been successful in the treatment of acne, burns and age-related skin changes. Excessive scar tissue also becomes softer and more visually appealing thanks to the effects of MSM.

Scleroderma: Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease in which the skin and connective tissue become abnormally hard and stiff. In a severe form, this can lead to immobility (e.g. of the fingers) or to a mask-like face. Trials have shown that MSM (administered internally and also in cream form) makes the affected tissue softer and more elastic again and improves the quality of life of patients. Side effects / contraindications: MSM is non-toxic and is compatible with all other medications. No side effects have been observed to date.

Safety and side effects

MSM is potentially safe and harmless for most people when taken orally for 3 months or less, and when applied to the skin in combination with other ingredients such as silymarin, hyaluronic acid and tea tree oil for up to 20 days. In some people, MSM may cause nausea, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, itching or an exacerbation of allergy symptoms.

Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the safety of MSM during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid MSM to be on the safe side.

Notes

To be optimally effective, MSM must be taken daily and regularly over a longer period of time. It is recommended to take vitamin C or multivitamin supplements at the same time, as the desired effects will occur more quickly. The first positive results should be noticeable within three weeks. The joint nutrients glucosamine sulphate, chondroitin sulphate and MSM in pure quality with the important co-factors vitamin C and manganese. Studies have shown that these nutrients can have a positive effect on the formation and regeneration of damaged cartilage and are recommended by Dr. Theodosakis in his book "Die Arthrosekur".

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate are natural components of cartilage, which unfortunately are often no longer produced in sufficient quantities with age. We are therefore dependent on an external supply. Clinical studies have shown that this powerful team is able to build up and regenerate cartilage tissue when taken over a longer period of time.

Glucosamine is an essential building block of proteoglycans, the proteins that bind water in cartilage tissue so that it retains its cushioning effect. Together with chondroitin, it stimulates the formation of new cartilage tissue, strengthens the collagen fibers and at the same time keeps cartilage-destroying enzymes under control. They work closely together to keep the cartilage healthy and efficient.

Dosage in sport

Take 1-5 grams daily (depending on the condition), preferably on a not too full stomach with water or fruit juice. No side effects have been reported from the use of sulphur.

References

1. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Apr;8(2):167-73. A multicentered, open-label trial on the safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Barrager E, Veltmann JR Jr, Schauss AG, Schiller RN.
2. Altern Med Rev. 2002 Feb;7(1):22-44. sulfur in human nutrition and applications in medicine. Parcell S.
3. Food Chem Toxicol. 2002 Oct;40(10):1459-62. Toxicity of methylsulfonylmethane in rats. Horvath K, Noker PE, Somfai-Relle S, Glavits R, Financsek I, Schauss AG.
4. Toxicol Lett. 2001 Sep 15;123(2-3):169-77. Accumulation of methylsulfonylmethane in the human brain: identification by multinuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Lin A, Nguy CH, Shic F, Ross BD.
5. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Jun;8(3):229. methylsulfonylmethane as a treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis: more data needed on pollen counts and questionnaire. Gabby AR.
6. Total Health. 1998. "MSM. Feb/Mar, Vol. 20 No. 1. pp. 30-31.
7. Williams, S. 1997. Nutrition & Diet Therapy (8th ed.). Academic Press, N.Y., N.Y.
8. Thomas, C. 1993. Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, (1 7th ed.). F.A. Davis Company, Philadelphia, PA.
9. Mindell, Earl L., The MSM Miracle - Enhance your health with organic sulfur, Keats Good Health Guide, Keats Publishing, Inc, New Canaan, CT, 1997
10. Herschler, R. J., "Methylsulfonylmethane in Cosmetics", 1984, Cardinal Associates, Inc.
11. Whitaker, J., "Try MSM for Relief from Muscular Pain", Health and Healing, Oct. 1997
12. Kirschmann, J. D. and Dunne, L. J., Nutrition Almanac, Second Edition, McGraw-Hill, 1984
13. Balch, J. F. and Balch P.A., Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Avery Publishing, Garden City Park, NY, 1990
14. Mindell, Earl R. The MSM Miracle. Keats Publishing, Lincolnwood, Illinois, USA, 1997:25.
15. MSM helps to block undesirable cross-linking that is associated with inflexible, aging skin. Methylsulfonylmethane. Focus. August 1997:8.
16. MSM exerts beneficial, inhibitory effects on the cross-linking of proteins including collagen. Via this mechanism it may potentially reduce hardening of the skin and connective tissues.
17. Nutritional significance and medical applications of MSM - a biologically active sulfur compound. [a paper outlining the claims made in a number of U.S. patents for MSM]. MSM inhibits the excessive cross-linking of the collagen content of the skin.
18. Jacob, S. W. MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). Total Health. 20(1):30-31, 1998. The author claims that MSM is an excellent therapy for the prevention of allergies.
19. Lawrence, R. Breakthrough: key to solving joint inflammation. Journal of Longevity. 45, 1999 The author cites Dr. S. W. Jacob and claims that this doctor has reported good results on thousands of people with severe allergies. Ley Jacobs, B. M. MSM packs a sulfuric punch. Nutrition Science News. May 1999.
20. Mahi, J. MSM: Arthritis breakthrough? Vitamin Research News. July 1999.Oral supplementation with MSM alleviates the eye inflammation, runny nose and hoarseness that occurs during allergic reactions to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust and molds. Nose drops containing MSM can also achieve these therapeutic results.
21. Mindell, Earl R. The MSM Miracle. Keats Publishing, Lincolnwood, Illinois, USA, 1997:29-32.Optimal levels of MSM increases the permeability of cells. This permits the body to flush out undesirable antigens before they can initiate allergies. When the body contains insufficient MSM, cells become harder and stiffer which interferes with the flow of fluids through the cells. The author recommends the use of 6,000 mg of MSM per day for three weeks for allergy sufferers. Subsequent dosages can be reduced to 3,000 mg per day.
22. MSM: The multi-purpose compound. Life Extension. 5(9), 1999.MSM supplementation curtails the allergic response to pollens and foods.