One of the latest minerals to step into the nutritional spotlight is MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). Commonly known as an organic sulfur compound, this often overlooked mineral is called the beauty mineral because of its nutritional role in making hair shine and skin glow. Inner health contributes to outer beauty and MSM is a major nutritional factor in feeling good and looking good. Not only does MSM promote healthy skin, hair and nails - MSM is an essential ingredient for all healthy tissue.
HEALTHY CELLS BUILD HEALTHY BODIES
We are only as healthy as our cells. Our bodies work every second of every day to replace old, damaged cells with new and healthy ones. recent research has greatly expanded our understanding and appreciation of MSM in providing the nutritional building blocks for constructing healthy cells.
Cells built with healthy amounts of MSM are more pliable and permeable, allowing the normal flow of fluids to move through tissue more freely. Without adequate levels of MSM, this crucial cellular building process suffers a breakdown and increases the risk of forming weak cells that are rigid and possibly deformed.
New cells continue to be made, but they will be less likely to have the degree of flexibility and permeability needed for optimal functioning. The inevitable consequence of low levels of MSM is suboptimal cellular development, leading to a greater risk for developing many chronic health problems.
MSM AND YOUR HEALTH
MSM is linked to dozens of physiological functions. As a source of usable organic sulfur, MSM is one of the most important raw materials needed by the cells to ensure their normal growth and repair. After ingestion, MSM gives up its sulfur to form the collagen and keratin required for health, strong connective tissue, hair, skin and nails. This source of organic sulfur also helps to form the essential amino acids methionine, cystine and cysteine, and blood proteins.
Organic sulfur supports the synthesis and activation of the B vitamins (thiamin, biotin and pantothenic acid) and lipoic acid which are all essential nutrients for building and maintaining a health nervous system. Healthy insulin production and proper carbohydrate metabolism is critically dependent upon adequate amounts of sulfur. Organic sulfur also helps to maintain the fine balance between acid-to-alkaline in the body.
The need for adequate levels of MSM for good health has been well established and the list of benefits is growing longer as research continues. Numerous controlled studies conducted by the Oregon Health Sciences University and the Ohio State University College of Medicine have demonstrated the therapeutic effect and safety of MSM.
Research has linked MSM to the possible prevention and treatment of a broad range of health conditions including allergic responses to food and pollen; hyperacidity (over-acid stomach); acne; arthritis; muscle pain and cramps; weak hair and nails; skin aging and damage; parasite infestations, toxicity; diabetes; constipation; interstitial cystitis; scleroderma; lung dysfunction. Other preliminary research indicates a positive influence in the prevention of breast and colon cancer. One study even showed that subjects who snored had a significant reduction in their snoring after administering a water based solution containing 16% MSM to each nostril before going to bed.
MSM AND ARTHRITIS
MSM has exhibited an impressive pain reducing and anti-inflammatory effect on swollen joints and damaged connective tissue. By restoring the flexibility and permeability of the cell walls, MSM helps to eliminate the pressure build-up and alleviate pain and inflammation. Collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are integral components of healthy joints and depend on organic sulfur as a primary building material. Cartilage and connective tissue break-down, which commonly occurs due to arthritis and sports injuries, may be repaired by adequate levels of MSM.
MSM AND SKIN PROBLEMS
Organic sulfur has always been recognized for its beneficial effect on skin. This nutrient feeds skin cells and helps to repair damaged skin tissue. MSM counteracts skin-aging by supplying the raw materials needed for healthy collagen production. MSM improves the general health of skin and makes it softer, smoother and more youthful-looking. Topical creams and ointments formulated with organic sulfur are helpful in treating skin disorders.
MSM AND AGING
People of all ages must have sufficient MSM for maintaining good health, but as we get older and more susceptible to degenerative disease, our need for MSM becomes even greater. As we age, our ability to replenish healthy cells is diminished if we lack the optimal levels of nutrients required for health cell production.
NATURAL FOOD AND SUPPLEMENTAL SOURCES OF ORGANIC SULFUR
According to Dr. Michael Colgan's book, Your Personal Vitamin Profile, the body requires about 1000 mg per day of organic sulfur. Protein-rich foods are considered some of the best sources of organic sulfur. Unpasteurized dairy products, eggs (yolks) fish and seafood, poultry and meat top the list of animal source proteins. Garlic, onions, legumes, red peppers, broccoli, brussles sprouts, kale, soybeans, turnips, horsetail herb, and asparagus are plant sources of organic sulfur.