OptiMSM Supplement - Active Form of Methyl-sulfonyl-methane for Joint Health

Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM), also called dimethyl-sulfone, is a rich, stable and natural source of organic sulfur. Although sulfur is found naturally in certain fresh fruits and vegetables, it is destroyed by cooking, processing and storing. Studies clearly demonstrate that MSM levels in the body decrease significantly with age. Supplementation is therefore an attractive option, particularly as it is inexpensive and free from toxicity.

We are now using OptiMSM® a purer, more active form of MSM that is non-toxic, and above all, hypoallergenic. In fact, OptiMSM® is completely free of heavy metal residues, impurities and contaminants, due to a four-stage distillation process, which only uses heat rather than powerful solvents. Every batch is tested to ensure the absence of potential allergens. Thus, OptiMSM® is certified Kosher, Halal, vegetarian and guaranteed gluten- and GMO-free. It has been awarded GRAS status (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA and conforms to the highest standards of pharmaceutical microbiology.

What do studies show about Methyl-sulfonyl-methane?

• Sulfur is found in particularly high concentrations in the joints where it helps in the production of chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine and hyaluronic acid. It plays a critical role in maintaining the stability and integrity of connective tissue and proteins.
• Several studies have shown benefits from MSM supplementation as a ‘natural lubricant, in promoting joint comfort and easing pain associated with osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A study conducted in 1995 revealed that sulfur concentration in arthritic cartilage was only a third of that in normal cartilage. In another, double-blind, study, 60% of arthritis sufferers treated with 2.25mg MSM a day reported an improvement after four weeks supplementation, and 82% after six weeks'. Other benefits were seen in chronic joint pain, muscular pain, tendonitis and bursitis, intestinal irritation and scleroderma.
• Researchers from the University of California at San Diego investigated the effect of MSM on healthy and arthritic articular cartilage from post-mortem human knees. They specifically looked at the effect of MSM on cytokines, which are markers of inflammation related to cartilage degradation. They found that MSM reduced the expression of these pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as expression of cartilage-degrading enzymes. The researchers suggest that MSM may act as a barrier, protecting cartilage in early stages of osteoarthritis against further degeneration from inflammatory cytokines and cartilage-degrading enzymes.
• MSM is also essential for many enzymatic and hormonal reactions as well as for maintaining a healthy immune system. When the body's MSM levels are adequate, it seems to be concentrated around the mucus membranes where it creates a protective shield which reduces the effects of allergens and external contaminants. Studies also show a beneficial effect from MSM in asthma and allergies. According to Earl Mindell, Ph.D, MSM increases cell permeability and enables the body to eliminate toxins and free radicals more easily.
• Once ingested, MSM gives its sulfur element to the amino acids methionine and cysteine and is incorporated into the keratin (structure) of the hair and nails. In addition, MSM is necessary for the production of collagen (the main component of connective tissue). Regular MSM supplementation thus improves the health and appearance of the hair and nails: hair is longer and shinier, nails are stronger. Wound-healing is also accelerated by MSM supplementation, particularly when combined with vitamin C.
• According to a study in animals, MSM supplementation helps support liver metabolism by increasing levels of L-glutathione, a sulfur antioxidant involved in hepatic detoxification.

1. Peel S. et al. 2015, The Effects of MSM Supplementation on Knee Kinetics during Running, Muscle Strength, and Muscle Soreness following Eccentric Exercise- Induced Quadriceps Damage, Journal of Sports Medicine, vol 2016, Article ID 7498359
2. Withee. et al. 2015, Effects of MSM on exercise-induced muscle and joint pain: a pilot study, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
3. Anthonavage, M. et al. 2015, Effects of Oral Supplementation With Methylsulfonylmethane on Skin Health and Wrinkle Reduction, Anthonavage, M. et al. 2015 Natural Medicine Journal
4. DeSilvestro et al. 2008, MSM intake in Mice Produces Elevated Liver Glutathione and Partially Protects against CCl4 -Induced Liver Damage, FASEB J, 2008, 22:445.8
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6. Short- and long-term therapeutic effects of thermal mineral waters in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Harzy T, Ghani N, Akasbi N, et al. Clin Rheumatol. 2009 May;28(5):501-7. Epub 2009 Feb 19. Review.
7. Kolasinski SL, Garfinkel M, et al. Iyengar yoga for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knees: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med 2005 Aug;11(4):689-93.