MSM is an abbreviation of Methyl Sulphonyl Methane. About 1/3 of the MSM molecule consists of sulphur. Even though MSM is not a vitamin, it is important for the body. Its purpose is to neutralize the free radicals in the body, and it increases both the secretion of toxic substances and waste products from the cells as well as the uptake of nutrients. We know that the sulphur contained in MSM is built into the body's connective tissue, hair, and nails and that it is a constituent of our antibodies, but not all of the working mechanisms of MSM are fully understood.
Many foods are rich in MSM. It is found in eggs, milk, red pepper, onions and garlic, cabbage, fruits, and green vegetables; but heating and manufacture reduce its content considerably. Many people can benefit from MSM and people with bad food habits are in danger of being deficient in it. The need for MSM seems to increase with age.
MSM's fundamental meaning for almost all the proteins of the body, its anti-oxidant effect, and its ability to increase the exchange of substances over the cell membrane can - together with a possible deficiency state in the body - contribute to the explanation as to why MSM is used by some for many different symptoms.
Toxicity and Side effects
MSM has been tested for its toxicity and is has been found out to be non-toxic, even very high doses.
Test methods:
• A large dose tested over a short period of time: (one month of 1000 mg. per kilogram of body weight)
• A smaller dose tested over a longer period of time: (six months of 2000 mg. daily)
Symptoms in connection with the use of MSM for detoxification effect have been reported.
Dosage
According to the type of symptom and degree of severity: 500 - 6000 mg. daily, with meals. The normal dose is 1000 - 2000 mg 2 times a day. It can be a good idea to begin with a small dose and then to escalate over a couple of weeks. MSM is not a rapidly working preparation. Results cannot be expected until 2 - 8 weeks of use.
Please note
It is recommended to take a daily supplement of 50 - 150 mcg. of the vitamin molybdenum when taking MSM. The body uses molybdenum to transform sulphur, for transporting oxygen, and for detoxification, and the amount of molybdenum that we attain from the diet is often insufficient. Molybdenum is a part of many multi-vitamin preparations.
For an optimal effect, it is recommended to take MSM together with vitamin C.
