It seems that no definitive conclusions have been made regarding how long you can take MSM supplements.
However, research suggests that while the safety of long-term use in high doses remains unclear, lower doses appear to be a safer and sometimes more effective approach.
Before we delve into the details of MSM usage, let’s briefly go over what MSM is and the benefits of supplementation!
MSM: A Quick Overview
Methylsulfonylmethane, commonly abbreviated to MSM, is an organic, white crystalline substance made up of 34% sulfur.
It’s essentially the building block of our cartilage and connective tissues and helps form essential proteins in our body, such as collagen and glucosamine.
MSM is found naturally in plants, animals, food, and humans, but is also widely available as a supplement.
You may see MSM as a standalone supplement or as a key ingredient in many joint support supplements alongside the likes of glucosamine and chondroitin, also two very popular joint supplements that work together to support overall joint and cartilage health.
MSM has many benefits, and not exclusive to joint health either. Let’s take a look!
The Health Benefits of MSM
Anti-inflammatory properties
MSM is thought to have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can offer a range of benefits, from reducing joint pain to easing symptoms of allergies.
MSM lowers inflammation by inhibiting the release of certain inflammatory substances, helping to control the inflammatory response, particularly for joint conditions, seasonal allergies, and muscle soreness.1
Supports Joint Health
MSM is a popular supplement and is often labeled a staple supplement and an effective alternative to medication among those suffering from arthritic conditions such as osteoarthritis, caused by wear and tear of the cartilage.
MSM has been shown to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with these conditions, as well as preserve cartilage and increase the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin, other key compounds found in cartilage and connective tissue.1
Helps Ease Muscle Soreness
Research has shown MSM to be an effective remedy for muscle soreness. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties combined with the antioxidant properties, it makes for a fairly efficient supplement for speedy muscle recovery after exercise.
MSM has been shown to decrease exercise-induced oxidation, which is often what causes the sore muscles we experience after a workout!1
Boosts Immunity
Studies have shown MSM to be effective in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation1, both of which can have a negative impact on our immune systems.
In addition to this, MSM helps our body’s produce more glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. Good levels of glutathione result in a stronger, healthier immune system.
So, now we know what MSM is and what it does, let’s look at how best to take it to reap these benefits!
If you want to learn more about "Benefits of Taking MSM Supplements", check out our linked guide.
How to Take MSM
Research has suggested that MSM is most effective when taken alongside the likes of glucosamine and chondroitin.1
As mentioned, MSM helps to increase the formation of these essential proteins, so it makes sense to supplement them all as a stack to see the best results!
Performance Lab Flex is the best joint supplement stack on the market at the moment, combining MSM (as 100mg OptiMSM®), glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, boswellia serrata, and strontium, all helping to lubricate joints, absorb shock, support ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, and relieve stiff, achy joints.
MSM is also best taken when it’s in the form of OptiMSM®, the purest and best quality available.
MSM: How Long Can You Take It?
When it comes to dosages, in much research, dosages of up to 4-6g daily have been used, though it’s unclear what the long-term effects of this would be.
This is why it’s recommended to take a lower dose of MSM alongside other joint supplements to ensure minimal side effects, safe long-term use, and the most effective outcome upon stacking with other joint supplements.
There is no definitive answer to how long you can take MSM as a high-dose, standalone supplement.
However, when taking Performance Lab Flex, you have the benefit of knowing the safety and efficacy of long-term use, so it appears less is better in this case!
Summary
MSM is an effective supplement commonly taken to help relieve joint pain and stiffness, reduce inflammation, ease muscle soreness and boost our immunity.
While it’s generally shown to be safe to use in the short-term, the safety of long-term use of the typical high doses often reported in literature is yet to be determined.
For now, it appears that less is better, with smaller doses being not only effective, but safe for long-term use.
A good example being Performance Lab Flex, which offers 100mg OptiMSM® alongside many other effective joint supplements and shown to be effective and safe.
References
- Butawan M, Benjamin RL, Bloomer RJ. Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients. 2017;9(3):290. Published 2017 Mar 16.
