MSM

Because this is a newer product many people have never heard of it, or know little about it. I'm including the product information sheet from the manufacturer to explain - mostly because I don't know the product well enough to explain it succinctly. Here goes....

What is MSM? MSM, or Methylsulfonylmethane, is a naturally occurring nutrient. An organic sulfur, MSM is found in all living organisms. The cycle of these naturally occurring sulfur compounds begins in the ocean where plankton release sulfur compounds called dimethylsulfide (DMS) which escapes from the ocean water as a gas and rises into the upper atmosphere. In the presence of ozone and high energy ultraviolet light, the DMS is converted into its counterparts, DMSO (remember that one?) and MSM. Unlike DMS, both DMSO and MSM are very soluble in water and they return to the surface of the earth in the rain. Plants take up the two compounds very rapidly into their root systems, concentrating them up to one hundred times. MSM itself is incorporated into the plant structure. Through the process of plant metabolism, the MSM is mineralized and transported back to the sea, where the sulfur cycle begins.

MSM is a natural form of organic sulfur found in all living organisms and is present in our body fluids and tissues. It is found in a variety of fresh foods including raw fruits, vegetables, meat, fish and milk. However, unless the diet is composed primarily of raw foods, it is unlikely that a body can receive enough MSM for proper health management.

Sulfur has a vital relationship with protein, since sulfur is found in the amino acids methionine, cystine and cysteine. These amino acids are known as the sulfur-bearing amino acids which are considered the building blocks of protein. The sulfur-bearing amino acid methionine is essential to good health. Accordingly, it must be supplied by live food, or the food supplement MSM. A lack of proper protein in the diet also means a lack of the vital organic sulfur necessary to good health. Protein contains sulfur, while carbohydrates and fats do not.

As an acid-forming mineral that is part of the chemical structure of methionine, cysteine, taurine and glutathione, sulfur disinfects the blood, resists bacteria and protects the protoplasm of cells. It aids in oxidation reactions, stimulates bile secretions in the liver and protects against toxic substances. Because of its ability to protect against the harmful effects of radiation and pollution, sulfur slows down the aging process and extends life span. It is found in hemoglobin and all body tissues and is needed for synthesis of collagen, which prevents dryness and maintains elastin in the skin.

MSM is rated as one of the least toxic substances in biology, similar in toxicity to water. Any extra MSM becomes inert and just passes through the system. It has been widely tested as a food ingredient without any reports of allergic reactions. Without a diet high in protein, of natural and unprocessed foods, and with the normal aging deficiencies, MSM must be replenished for optimal health.

How can MSM help? MSM detoxifies the body and increases blood circulation. In cleaning the blood of toxins, MSM allows other nutrients, supplements and even medicines to function more effectively. It is a free radical scavenger so allergies to food and pollens may decrease and may even be eliminated. MSM coats the intestinal tract so parasites are unable to adhere and are flushed away.

By reducing MSM deficiencies (when taken a a daily dietary supplement) the following are some of the conditions which have been helped or even eliminated by MSM.

Response to allergies - Oral MSM has alleviated the allergic response to pollen and to foods. The anti-allergic property of MSM is on par with or better than the traditional antihistaminic preparations.

Reduced joint and muscle pain and inflammation - As the flexible bond between proteins, MSM aids in cell regeneration. It reduces inflammation and permits the muscles to heal. While helping to rebuild healthy cells, MSM can increase flexibility in joints and has been welcome relief to sufferers of arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, muscle strains and tendon and ligament strains and sprains.

Increased energy and metabolism - Through lung cleansing and increased oxygen absorption, as well as detoxification and proper elimination, MSM is a natural energy enhancer.

Antiparasitic action - In vitro and in vivo tests suggest MSM has an activity against a variety of medically important parasitic problems. So far, research has concentrated on parasitic problems of the intestinal and urogenital tracts. MSM has been found to be active against Giardia Lamblia (travelers diarrhea), trichomonads and roundworms.

Control of hyperacidity - Chronic users of various antacids and histamine H2 receptor antagonists prefer MSM by reason of relief obtained coupled with freedom from serious medicinal effects.

Control of constipation - Constipation can be a medical problem of concern and at the very least cause symptoms of fatigue, depression and pain. Proper elimination is crucial to a healthy body. Daily doses of MSM have provided a prompt and continuing relief to chronic constipation suffers.

Some additional benefits of regular use of biological sulfur - Relief from asthma, PMS and cramps, headaches, reversal of hardening of the arteries and emphysema, control of Candida, aid to healing of ulcers and reconstruction of healthy cells in cancer patients.

MSM is also extremely beneficial to hair, skin and nails - improving skin elasticity and hair and nail growth and strength. Because nutritional sulfur helps keep skin, hair and nails healthy, it has been referred to as nature's "beauty material". It has been helpful with skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, rashes, acne, keloids, skin tumors, warts, athletes food, insect bites, poison oak, burns and sunburns, cuts sores, abrasions and blistering. With general skin care of MSM lotion, it can help reduce and even remove stretch marks, surface blemishes and sun or aging spots.

 

And my final personal note - our experience around the gym seems to be a little unexplainable. One person will notice increased energy, another less shoulder pain, another's skin may clear up....it may be related to each individual's diet, or how their body processes the nutrients. Either way, give it a try - you might have a pleasant surprise awaiting you.

Update: We've just added an effervescent MSM, Glucosamine, Chondroitin packet manufactured by our friends at Body Ammo to our site. Click here to see the Joint Connection supplement info.