Sulfur is the third most abundant mineral in your body. It plays a critical role in our overall health – yet most of us never even think about it.
Sulfur is both a mineral and an element and is naturally found in the protein of plants, animals, and humans. Methylsulfonylmethane(MSM), a naturally occurring dietary form of sulfur, is necessary for many important functions in the body. This includes the making of collagen, the main supportive protein of tendons, cartilage, connective tissue, and bone. Collagen is also important for healthy skin, hair, and nails. The body cannot make sulfur on its own; therefore, it must be obtained from a variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. MSM is made of the sulfur containing amino acids cysteine and methionine and has been shown to help maintain healthy joints. It may also reduce stress from excessive free radicals and a lack of antioxidants.
MSM versus Sulfur
One of the first things to clear up about the benefits of sulfur supplements is that there are two types of sulfur supplements: MSM and sulfur.
MSM: is a chemical found naturally in plants, animals, and humans. Scientists can also synthetically manufacture MSM in a laboratory and many people use MSM as a medicine.
MSM claims to offer a wide range of health benefits. It has been said that it helps with arthritis and chronic joint pain. Some people also use it to relieve allergies and digestive problems.
What is the secret behind MSM?
All MSM contains sulfur, but not all sulfur contains MSM. MSM is simply a naturally occurring compound which is produced by most living creatures – so it is one of the easiest forms of sulfur to access.
MSM supplements are often recommended as one of the best ways to add sulfur to your diet and heal common aches and pains.
Some of the benefits of MSM
- May improve flexibility and mobility by promoting joint function and health
- May help alleviate discomfort that may follow challenging exercise sessions
- May help reduce oxidative stress in the body. These are times when the body has excessive amounts of free radicals and a lack of antioxidants.
- May help promote healthy skin, hair, and nails
- Older adults may especially benefit from MSM due to an inadequate intake of protein, as MSM provides sulfur-containing amino acids
Best Sources of Sulfur
Sulfur and MSM can be found in almost all raw food.
- Leafy Green Vegetables
- Beer and Coffee
- Raw Milk
- Eggs
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Soy Products, Legumes, Nuts, Seeds, and Grains
- Asparagus, Brussel Sprouts, Garlic, Onions, and Kale
- B Vitamins
- All Fruits
If you are not meeting the recommended daily intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, supplementation with Organic Sulfur may be a perfect addition to your daily regimen!
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