Every so often we get new information on a nutrient, vitamin, herb or enzyme that allows us to use it in a different way with exciting results. Recently this happened after I was reading some clinical information as it related to MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) also referred to sometimes as organic sulfur. Many of you will recognize this nutrient since it is commonly used with glucoasamine and chondroitin sulfate to support joint health. What we found is that the amount needed to offer greater results needed to be in much higher dosages than exists in these above mentioned formulas. In addition, MSM has many other functions and therefore a broad range of conditions it can be potentially helpful with. These higher dosages have been used for many years by a number of practitioners without harmful side effects.
We have found that when utilized at dosages of 5 grams to 20 grams per day it can provide a wonderful anti-inflammatory effect. Each person has specific health issues and idiosyncrasies that must be evaluated by a practitioner to try to figure the dosage that may work for them. This discussion should not be taken as recommendations for specific care but should be discussed with your health care provider or nutritionist.
The anti-inflammatory type support is helpful in light of recent problems found with Vioxx and other Cox 2 inhibitors. Also, long term use of NSAID’s such as the above types of medications will help symptomatically but will decrease synthesis of joint tissue and possibly cause digestive problems. Long term use of MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate will actually help increase synthesis of joint tissue over the long run and have far less side effects.
Other health conditions that MSM has been helpful in is support of detoxification by supplying sulfur and methyl groups which the liver uses in its detox pathways. It has also been helpful in tendonitis and bursitis and other overuse syndromes. A number of patients have seen decreased asthma related symptoms as well. Headaches are another condition that has had some symptomatic help with MSM. Due to the anti-inflammatory effect, fibromyalgia symptoms have been decreased in some individuals. MSM has also been shown to be helpful in bruising and trauma.
As with all health related treatments and suggestions personal use of MSM should be covered with your nutritionist and/or health care provider.
idiosyncrasies that must be evaluated by a practitioner to try to figure the dosage that may work for them. This discussion should not be taken as recommendations for specific care but should be discussed with your health care provider or nutritionist.