Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organosulfur compound that has gained popularity as a dietary supplement for joint health and muscle recovery. Scientific research investigating MSM’s effects on the muscles body system—particularly in the context of exercise recovery, muscle soreness, and inflammation—has yielded some promising but limited results. Several randomized controlled trials suggest that MSM supplementation may help reduce exercise-induced muscle damage and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in healthy adults. For example, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that MSM supplementation led to reduced muscle soreness after strenuous exercise. Other studies have demonstrated modest reductions in markers of inflammation (such as C-reactive protein) and subjective reports of muscle pain following exercise. The proposed mechanisms include MSM’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate muscle tissue damage and promote faster recovery. However, the overall body of evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and inconsistent methodologies. While MSM is widely used by athletes and individuals seeking improved muscle recovery, the scientific validation is not robust, and large-scale, well-controlled studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. Thus, while the use of MSM for muscle support is partially justified by available scientific evidence, the strength of this evidence is moderate at best.

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Nature's Sunshine Everflex with Hyaluronic Acid
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Nature's Sunshine Structural System (30 Day Program)