MSM dangers: Risks and precautions you should know

Is MSM dangerous for health?

The short answer is: the available scientific data does not show that MSM poses any particular danger when used as recommended in healthy adults.

However, this does not mean it is risk-free. No dietary supplement can be considered universally safe. Effects can vary depending on health status, medication, doses consumed, and individual sensitivity.

What is Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)?

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organosulfur compound naturally present in small quantities in the human body, as well as in certain plant and animal foods. It is one of the forms in which sulfur is found in living organisms.

Sulfur is a mineral element naturally present in many tissues and molecules of the body. It is notably found in certain amino acids, such as methionine and cysteine, as well as in various proteins present in body tissues. MSM therefore represents an organic sulfur source, without this prejudging any particular effect related to its consumption.

In terms of diet, methylsulfonylmethane is naturally present in small quantities in certain fruits, vegetables, cereals, milk, coffee, and tea. However, its content can vary depending on the food, growing conditions, storage, or processing methods, particularly cooking.

As a dietary supplement, MSM is generally obtained through a synthesis process that yields a molecule chemically identical to that found in nature. It is marketed in various forms, mainly in powder format or capsule format, alone or combined with other ingredients frequently used in dietary supplements.

What do scientific studies say about MSM?

In a study published in 2023 in the scientific journal Nutrients (2), Akifumi Toguchi and his colleagues evaluated the use of MSM in 88 healthy adults with mild knee pain.

Participants were divided into two groups: the first consumed 2g of MSM per day for 12 weeks, while the second received a placebo. The study was conducted as a "double-blind" trial, meaning neither participants nor researchers knew who was receiving MSM or the placebo until the analysis was complete.

The researchers then assessed the participants' progress using the JKOM questionnaire, a tool for measuring the impact of knee pain on quality of life and daily activities.

After 12 weeks, the results showed a difference between the two groups, with better JKOM scores in participants who consumed MSM. The authors also reported that MSM was well tolerated during the study period.

These results provide interesting data on MSM, but they must be interpreted with caution: the study was conducted on a limited number of participants and over a 12-week period. Further research is needed to confirm these observations.

What are the possible side effects of MSM?

Even when a dietary supplement has a good safety profile, some users may experience adverse effects. When side effects are observed, they primarily concern the digestive system.

The most commonly described side effects are:

• bloating;
• a feeling of digestive discomfort.
  

These manifestations are generally moderate and transient. They appear when the supplement is introduced rapidly at a high dose.

This is why many professionals recommend starting with a small amount before gradually increasing the dose if necessary.

Taking MSM with a meal can also help improve digestive tolerance in some people.

Who should be particularly careful with MSM?

Even if available studies indicate that MSM has a reassuring safety profile in healthy adults, certain categories of people should remain cautious:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• People undergoing medical treatment
• People with a chronic illness

Before starting MSM supplementation, it is recommended to seek medical advice, especially in the presence of an illness or medical treatment.

Powder format or capsule format: Which to choose?

MSM is mainly marketed in two forms: powder format and capsule format.

Scientifically, no study shows that one format is intrinsically more effective than the other. The choice mainly depends on individual habits.

Powder format

The powder format has several advantages:

• it allows for easy adjustment of the amount consumed;
• it is often more economical for high doses;
• it generally contains fewer excipients.

However, its slightly sulfuric taste may be unpleasant for some people.

Capsule format

The capsule format is often preferred for its ease of use.

It allows for quick consumption, without having to measure the amount of powder, and its taste is completely masked.

The choice therefore essentially depends on personal preferences rather than a demonstrated difference in efficacy or safety.

Why is choosing a quality supplement important?

Not all dietary supplements have the same level of quality.

The active ingredient may be identical, but manufacturing processes, raw material purity, and controls performed vary considerably among manufacturers.

To choose a quality supplement, several criteria deserve examination.

Prioritize notably:

• a simple and transparent composition;
• a clearly indicated dosage;
• ingredient traceability;
• purity analyses performed by independent laboratories when this information is available;
• manufacturers adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices.

How to limit the risk of MSM side effects?

Even if methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is generally well tolerated, a few simple precautions can reduce the risk of digestive discomfort and allow for optimal use of this supplement.

Start with a low dose

When a person starts supplementation, it may be preferable not to begin directly with the maximum dose indicated on the packaging.

Gradually increasing the amount consumed allows the body time to adapt and can help improve digestive tolerance.

Take MSM with a meal

It is generally advised to take MSM with a meal to promote better digestive tolerance. This recommendation is particularly used to limit the potential occurrence of digestive discomfort, such as a feeling of unease during digestion.

Respect recommended doses

As with any dietary supplement, it is important to respect the doses indicated by the manufacturer. A higher amount does not necessarily mean a better result and may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly digestive issues.

It is therefore recommended to follow the usage instructions on the product and to seek advice from a healthcare professional in case of doubt or a specific situation.

Seek medical advice if in doubt

Before starting MSM supplementation, it is recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional in case of a specific situation, particularly in the presence of a health problem, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if taking regular treatments.

Medical advice ensures that the use of the dietary supplement is appropriate for your personal situation.

FAQ: Most frequently asked questions about MSM

Can MSM be combined with glucosamine or chondroitin?

Yes, these combinations are common in joint supplements.

However, if you are undergoing medical treatment or have a specific pathology, professional advice is still recommended.

How long can MSM supplementation last?

There is no universal duration.

For prolonged use, it is best to regularly check in with a healthcare professional.

Is MSM a natural product?

Methylsulfonylmethane is a compound naturally present in very small quantities in certain foods.

The MSM used in dietary supplements is, however, obtained through an industrial process that yields a chemically identical and highly purified molecule.

What is the best time to take MSM?

There is no scientifically proven ideal time.

Many people choose to take it with a meal to promote better digestive tolerance.

MSM dangers, risks, and precautions to know: In summary

According to current scientific knowledge, methylsulfonylmethane has a generally reassuring safety profile in healthy adults when used according to studied doses.

Reported side effects are most often mild and mainly concern digestion.

However, this does not mean that MSM is suitable for everyone. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people suffering from a chronic illness, or those taking medication should seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.

Finally, choosing a quality supplement, respecting usage recommendations, and maintaining a realistic approach to expected benefits are the best ways to use MSM under good conditions.

In terms of health, a dietary supplement never replaces a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, or appropriate medical follow-up when necessary.