The supplement and vitamin aisle is packed with many different pills, products and potions, but sometimes the best ones are the simplest and most overlooked.
Among these supplements is MSM, also known as Methylsulfonylmethane.
It sounds like an unhealthy substance created by the chemical industry, but MSM is actually a naturally-occurring compound found in plants that heals several debilitating ailments.
Many of the ailments MSM heals are associated with the wear and tear of aging and overworking of joints, muscles, and other sensitive body parts. It also helps to grow healthy hair, skin and nails, and fights at least six different types of cancers.
If you have any sort of tendon or ligament damage, tendonitis, or other muscle-based injury, you may want to consider adding MSM and collagen to your supplement routine.
As noted by Dr. Alyssa Musgrove, MSM is a source of sulfur that is necessary for proper tendon function. Collagen makes up ligament and tendon tissue.
Combining these two supplements along with an anti-inflammatory enzyme like bromelain can have incredibly positive effects on tendonitis, sports and movement related injuries, and tendonitis, as well as overall health of tendons such as the Achilles tendon.
The Top Food Sources of MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
This sulfur-based healing compound is found in a surprising variety of foods.
Some of the top food sources of MSM include:
- Alfalfa Sprouts or powders (preferably because GMO alfalfa is a concern)
- Leafy green vegetables
- Apples
- Raspberries
- Tomatoes
- Brussels sprouts
- Garlic
- Asparagus
- Kale
- Horsetail tea or supplements containing horsetail
Also known as dietary sulfur, MSM is widely found in these foods.
MSM may help with the following conditions:
- Tendonitis
- Osteoporosis
- Muscle cramps
- Headaches
- Joint inflammation
MSM can also increase hair growth, reduce wrinkles, eliminate stretch marks, and treat minor cuts.
A 2019 study found that oral supplements with MSM may improve the appearance of hair and nails.
Another 2009 study tested the effects of MSM and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) for the treatment of alopecia in mice.
The combination of these two nutrients was found to regrow hair.
Studies have shown that this unsung compound is also effective at stimulating cancer cell death, damaging cancer cell DNA, and inhibiting the growth of six different cancer cells.
Its ability to fortify and heal the joints and other sensitive areas from wear and tear associated with exercise and aging is well known.
Additional studies found that MSM “was more effective at decreasing pain and stiffness in people with knee osteoarthritis than glucosamine and chondroitin alone .”
In my personal experience, this is a truly amazing supplement that everyone should take as much as possible.
Every time I purchase this supplement, my body seems to crave it more and more.