MSM

Questions and Answers

By Dr. Thomas Stearns Lee, NMD

What Is MSM?

MSM is the abbreviation for Methly Sulfonyl Methane – a patented derivative of DMSO that appears to have all the anti-stress, anti-aging, and anti-pain benefits of DMSO.  MSM is tasteless and odorless, so it provides these results without having the major drawbacks fo DMSO.

Does MSM Occur Naturally?

Yes, MSM is found naturally in many foods when they're absolutely fresh – particularly in green plants, certain algaes, and a variety of fruits, vegetables and grains, and in some fish and meats.  But it's quickly lost as freshness passes, and it is effectively destroyed by the heat involved in cooking virtually any food.

If It Occurs Naturally, Why Is It Patented?

The patents aren't on the substance MSM itself, but on the method used to extract or to synthesize it.  The first use of MSM was primarily by veterinarians (particularly those with high-earning race horses).

How Does It Work?

MSM is an excellent source of sulfur, which is required for proper assimilation of the alpha amino acids Methionine and Cyteine.  It also is required in the molecular structure of many proteins, catalysts, and enzymes in the body.  That's why it benefits us in many ways.

How Safe Is It?

MSM is as safe as any other natural food product (when the pharmaceutical-grade MSM is used).

How Much Of It Do I Need?

Daily doses ranging from 250 to 750 mg twice daily have been recommended for adults.  Less MSM appears to be required when it's being taken with the "proper" amount of Vitamin C (with that amount being, in the opinion of many experts, 10 percent of the amount of Vitamin C as compared to the weight of the MSM being ingested).

Top

Related products available in the NaturoDoc Store: