Methyl sulfonyl methane, also often referred to as MSM or dimethyl sulfone, serves as a natural source of sulfur for the human body. The frequently occurring organic sulphur compound MSM can be found in milk and eggs, fresh vegetables, but also in meat and fish. However, as MSM is very sensitive to heat and cold, it is easily destroyed by long storage and cooking.
Sulphur performs important tasks in the body
Sulphur is a vital mineral that is incorporated into numerous proteins via the amino acids methionine and cysteine, among others. The bonds between two cysteine-sulphur atoms (disulphide bridges) ensure the stable, three-dimensional structure of proteins. The supporting apparatus and connective tissue in particular are therefore dependent on sulphur. Joints, cartilage, tendons, skin, hair and nails contain correspondingly large amounts of the mineral. However, our body also needs sufficient amounts of sulphur for detoxification via the liver, to strengthen the immune system and for the production of numerous enzymes. At the same time, sulphur is involved in various anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving processes.
Sulphur deficiency and osteoarthritis
A protein-rich and balanced diet is normally enough to supply the body with sufficient sulphur. This is because the MSM it contains can be utilized just as easily as the sulphur-containing amino acids found in food. However, studies show that the cartilage of affected joints does not contain enough sulphur in the case of osteoarthritis. This may be due to an undersupply of sulphur on the one hand, but also to a disruption of the sulphur metabolism caused by a vitamin deficiency, for example. In addition, many medications taken for osteoarthritis bind sulphur and thus further increase the deficiency in the joints.
Compensate for sulphur deficiency with MSM
An increased intake of sulphur for osteoarthritis supplies the cartilage with the essential mineral and at the same time helps to relieve pain in the joints and minimize possible inflammatory reactions. The targeted intake of MSM can therefore help to optimally supply the joints with sulphur. There is also an increased need for sulphur when the joints are under heavy strain or even injured, for example through sport, which can be compensated for with MSM.
English
Deutsch
