What’s MSM?

You’ve seen the ads. You’ve heard your friend’s rave about it and recommend it. But you’re still not entirely sure what MSM is. Why are people so excited by it? Because it is a total game changer in taking charge of your life! Gone are the days of constant worry about poor health and constant aches and pains. Here’s the scoop: MSM is short for methylsulfonylmethane. MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound. Sulfur is a necessary part of our diets and is a major component in the body’s function. It is found in leafy green veggies, dairy products, and meat and seafood. However, between cooking processes and the pesticides used in modern crop production, much of the sulfur we need is lost before we can reap the benefits of it. 

MSM is sold commercially in health stores and online as a dietary supplement. Most frequently in an easy to use powder form. It can be used to treat a myriad of health conditions. It is commonly linked to the relief and treatment of symptoms related to arthritis. MSM is known as being an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. When we have too much inflammation in our body, we feel things like stiffness and pain in our joint and experience uncomfortable swelling. With conditions like arthritis, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response to fight infections that aren’t there. Instead of fighting off bacteria, the immune system causes damage to its very own tissues. That’s where the use of MSM comes in. 

As an alternative medicine, MSM is used to treat a great number of conditions. MSM is a natural remedy and is less expensive than traditional medicine. If you suffer from any of the following conditions, you may want to consider purchasing a MSM supplement to add to your daily regime:

• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Chronic pain
• Constipation
• Diabetes
• Hemorrhoids
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Migraine headaches
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis

MSM is also known to provide other health benefits such as better blood circulation, weight loss, improved mood disorders, and reduction of acne and other dermatological conditions. MSM is called a miracle supplement and it’s no wonder! 

If you’re not yet convinced of how beneficial it is to use MSM, consider the findings of a 2011 study of men and women afflicted with osteoarthritis of the knee. Highlighted in  BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the clinical study of 49 men and women found that 12 weeks of MSM supplementation lead to significant improvement of physical function. This was in comparison to those who were given a placebo rather than the MSM. Other similar clinical trials have shown great promise for those that struggle with rosacea, allergies, hemorrhoids, and many other conditions. 

MSM is free from many of the side effects common with other supplements and medications. It is odorless and tasteless and easy to add to a glass of water. MSM is found affordably in your local drugstore or from your favorite online merchant. Be sure to let your physician know anytime you begin a new supplement!