MSM (methylsulfonylmethane, dimethyl sulfone, DMSO2) is a naturally occuring
thiol compound and one of the more popular dietary supplements. It is 34%
elemental sulfur and has a metabolic relationship with methionine, and is
found in small amounts in the diet in sources including milk, grains, meat,
eggs, fish, fruit, tea, coffee, and raw vegetables [2-3]. MSM is a metabolite
of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a compound that has been researched for a wide
range of therapeutic purposes, most notably joint support. About 17% of orally administered DMSO metabolizes
into MSM [1], and the two compounds have many related properties. However, MSM may pose a few advantages,
as it does not metabolize into the volatile compound dimethyl sulfide as
DMSO does, and also does not cause the garlic-like body odor associated with
DMSO use [1-2].
It is important to note that although the evidence for the claims made for
MSM is still weak, it is an extremely safe supplement. A toxicological study
in rats found no adverse effects from 2 g/kg acutely or 1.5 g/kg for 90 days;
this is about the equivalent of six times the maximum recommended human dose
[3]. Toxicity has not been reported in animal studies, adverse effects have
not been noted in human studies, and long-term users of 2 g or more daily
have reported no ill effects [2]. However, there is one concern. MSM has
been detected in the brains of humans taking MSM supplements, where it is
not normally detectable [3]. This was not associated with changes in the
concentrations of important cerebral metabolites, and this combined with
the animal data would indicate that it is unlikely that MSM has any important
effect on the brain [4].
The recommended dosage for MSM is in the range of 1-6 grams daily, although
some physicians have recommended up to 20 grams daily [3]. A study in 1975
indicated that MSM recovery after oral administration was only 3%, suggesting
utilization or modification in the gut or liver [3]. This may be why a high
dose is needed, but it is also noteworthy that the presence of detectable
MSM in the brain after supplementation would indicate that a supplement is
enough to significantly increase plasma levels of the compound. Given the
present information, it can be concluded that MSM is a safe supplement that may
be effective for a variety of purposes, primarily for joint support, but further studies are needed to prove efficacy.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this article, please email
dvdtlsn@bulknutrition.com.
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