Since the 1970s, South Korea has undergone rapid development and Westernization, becoming the 10th largest economy in the world. While this progress has helped eliminate concerns like hunger and infectious diseases, it has brought about the rise of chronic diseases like cancer, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, dementia, and stroke. At the center of these diseases is inflammation, which is why many are turning to MSM supplements to help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Choosing the Right MSM Supplement: What You Need to Know
When selecting MSM supplements, it’s essential to focus on the quality of raw materials used. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is made from DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide), which is derived from sources like pine trees, corn, soybean oil, and fossil fuels. However, the final product undergoes a chemical process that changes its structure, making the plant origin irrelevant.
The most important factor in choosing MSM is how impurities are removed during the manufacturing process. The technology and expertise behind the MSM manufacturing process are crucial for ensuring high-quality, pure MSM.
Top MSM Raw Material Suppliers You Can Trust
There are three main MSM raw material suppliers internationally:
- Ligunisel (USA)
- OptiMSM (USA)
- DistillPure (Canada)
Among these, OptiMSM is the most widely used and globally recognized supplier. It’s the only MSM raw material that has received FDA approval as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe).
OptiMSM uses a distillation method, which helps eliminate impurities and heavy metals, resulting in a highly pure product with 99.9% purity. This distillation method makes OptiMSM the preferred choice for many MSM products.
MSM Dosage: How Much Should You Take?
MSM dosage varies depending on the product. Some tablets contain 1500mg per pill, while others offer 2000mg per serving in powder form. Always check the label to ensure the dosage aligns with your needs.
The recommended daily dose of MSM is typically around 1.5g to 2g. However, depending on your health goals, you may need higher doses.
Research has shown that MSM has a very low toxicity level, with even high doses like 8g per kg of body weight being safe in animal studies. The FDA deems up to 4845.6mg/day safe for human consumption.
Why I Prefer Powdered MSM Over Tablets
I personally recommend powdered MSM because it offers more flexibility in adjusting the dose. Powdered MSM can be dissolved in water, which helps enhance its absorption. Plus, when taking larger doses (such as 3g per day), powder is often more convenient than tablets.
While tablets are easy to take, they may not allow for precise dosing if you need a larger quantity. For these reasons, I prefer MSM powder, especially when aiming for doses greater than the standard recommendation.
Best Supplements to Pair with MSM for Maximum Effectiveness
Here are three supplements that combine well with MSM to improve its effectiveness:
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps increase collagen production and, when paired with MSM, promotes the health of skin, cartilage, and connective tissues. Both MSM and vitamin C are antioxidants and support glutathione production, which boosts detoxification. - Collagen
Collagen pairs well with MSM to enhance the health of joints and connective tissues. Since MSM is also beneficial for collagen synthesis, using both can have a synergistic effect on tissue repair. - Mineral Complexes
Calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and manganese are essential for bone health, muscle recovery, and tissue repair. MSM has been shown to prevent calcification, and combining it with minerals like magnesium and calcium can optimize bone and muscle health.
MSM Side Effects and Precautions
While MSM is generally safe, some people with a sulfur allergy may experience skin rashes or itching. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to stop using MSM.
These side effects typically occur when starting MSM. If you’ve been taking MSM for a while and suddenly experience skin reactions, it’s less likely to be a side effect of MSM itself. Always monitor how your body reacts, especially when starting any new supplement.
People with a sulfa-based antibiotic allergy should avoid MSM, and those with poor kidney function should use MSM with caution. Some individuals may also experience digestive upset or diarrhea, so it’s important to observe any changes.
Final Thoughts on MSM
MSM is a versatile supplement with a variety of benefits, including inflammation reduction, pain relief, antioxidant activity, detoxification, and skin health. It’s particularly useful for individuals with joint health issues, chronic pain, calcification diseases, weakened hair, and skin damage.
When selecting MSM, focus on the supplier’s reputation and the purity of the raw materials. High-quality suppliers like OptiMSM, Ligunisel, and DistillPure are generally the best choices.
For most people, the recommended MSM dosage is 2g to 4g per day, but always be mindful of potential side effects, particularly regarding skin reactions and digestive issues. MSM works best when paired with other beneficial supplements like vitamin C, collagen, and minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Finally, remember that supplements should enhance your overall quality of life and be used as part of a comprehensive health strategy. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.