MSM in the Spotlight

The popularity of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) as a dietary supplement has grown since the ingredient’s introduction over 25 years ago. As a supplement, MSM is taken for many purposes, most commonly as an anti-inflammatory agent and dietary support for joint health and mobility. Studies have shown that a variety of health-outcome measures improve with MSM supplementation, including: inflammation, joint and muscle pain, oxidative stress, immune modulation, and skin appearance.

Over the years, researchers have performed an abundance of studies supporting multiple applications for MSM. Recently, a comprehensive discussion of the collective research was encapsulated in a review paper published in the journal Nutrients, titled “Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement.” (1) In the review, the authors explore MSM’s activity in the body and its potential mechanisms of action, including as an anti-inflammatory, an antioxidant, and an immune modulator. The paper also discusses MSM’s specific benefits for reducing joint-associated inflammation, helping to preserve cartilage, reducing oxidative stress, and even reducing muscle soreness associated with exercise. Moreover, the authors discuss MSM’s other notable benefits for skin health, with some evidence suggesting that MSM may improve skin quality and texture by acting as a sulfur donor to keratin. Finally, the authors discuss MSM’s common uses and safety profile, noting that MSM appears to be well-tolerated and safe.

References:
1. Butawan M et al., “Methylsulfonylmethane: applications and safety of a novel dietary supplement.” Nutrients. Published online March 16, 2017.


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