Sulfur is a naturally-occurring element that is found in its biologically active form (sulfonyl) in rain water and in many foods that have absorbed rain water – foods such as milk, fruits, vegetables, and even meat. In the form of MSM (short for methyl sulfonyl methane), it is the third most abundant mineral in your body, after calcium and phosphorous.
Bodily functions requiring sulfur to operate include:
Cell division: the reproduction process of human cells, in which one cell divides into two “daughter” cells.
Protein synthesis: the metabolic process that fuels most biological functions, from hair growth to digestion.
Cellular redox and detox: the process by which each human cell maintains its own health and rids itself of toxins.
Antioxidant and immunity defenses: when sulfur works with antioxidants to neutralize harmful metals, free radicals, and inflammatory chemicals.
Disulfide bonds: the process by which components such as glucosamine, collagen, skin, and nails hold tissues together.
When sulfonyl levels are low, cellular activity must continue regardless, but the cells cannot function well. The result is a lower quality of cell production. A few symptoms of low levels of sulfur are:
Higher levels of inflammation
Higher susceptibility to allergies
Physical and psychological stress
Organ and tissue malfunction
Fatigue
Susceptibility to disease
Drug hypersensitivity
Gastrointestinal upset
The biological need for sulfur is evident in every human cell. Sulfur compounds work with glucosamine, amino acids, hormones, antioxidants, and proteins that keep each cell running smoothly. Without sufficient levels of methylsulfonylmethane, cells would not be able to perform the most basic functions, such as cell reproduction or detoxification.
Health Benefits
After many years of testing, researchers like Stanley Jacob at the Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine have found that restoring healthy levels of methylsulfonylmethane improves a number of health conditions and risks. Sulfur supplementation may help:
Alleviate arthritis symptoms by simultaneously inhibiting pain receptors and reducing swelling in the joints.
Improve flexibility and permeability of arteries, allowing for oxygen and nutrients to pass through more easily.
Soften and improve the appearance of scar tissue.
Promote blood flow for healthy blood pressure.
Block cell receptors for histamine, the neuro-tranmitter responsible for many allergy symptoms.
Build disulfide bonds, which help to build connective tissues, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons.
Work with antioxidants , immunity responses, and amino acids to neutralize free radicals, metals, and harmful cancerous cells.
Help cells to reproduce, rebuild, and heal.
Work as a analgesic to inhibit pain impulses within the nervous system.
Reduce swelling and inflammation by dilating blood vessels, improving blood flow, and preventing fluid buildup.
Prevent the breakdown of cartilage and joint tissue.
Work with insulin to improve carbohydrate metabolism and healthy blood-sugar levels.
Alleviate digestion problems by improving PH balance, which helps to normalize stomach function and reduce the overproduction of stomach acids.
MSM supplements are totally natural and non-toxic, with no recorded side effects. It is extremely water-soluble, so any extra is eliminated by the body.