Opti MSM - Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane

What is MSM?

The chemical element sulfur is present in all living tissue. It plays an indispensable role in human nutrition. MSM (Methyl-Sulfonyl-
Methane) is a naturally occurring organic sulfur compound and derivative of DMS0 (dimethylsulfoxide). Although MSM has not yet been established as a vitamin, it does have a vitamin-like moderating or normalizing activity for a number of body functions.

Found in a wide variety of foods including fresh raw fruit and vegetables, meat milk, seafood and some grains, MSM is easily destroyed during moderate food processing. Cooking, drying, smoking, pickling and storage can deplete or eliminate the MSM content of food. Unless the diet consists largely of raw, organic, unprocessed foods, it is unlikely that sufficient MSM will be ingested to maintain optimal health. Low concentrations of MSM within the body may result in fatigue, physical and psychological stresses and an increased susceptibility to disease.

What is the Physiological Function of MSM?

Naturally found in the body, MSM is an important binder of soft tissue. MSM also fights parasites, aids digestion and alleviates heartburn and is an excellent "beauty" nutrient, promoting healthy skin, strong nails and lustrous hair. Research has shown that MSM coats the mucus membranes of the body, creating a shield or barrier through which air-borne allergy-causing contaminants (dust and pollens) are prevented from entering the tissue of the lungs and nasal passages. This is a significant benefit for those who suffer from allergies, hayfever and asthma.

Other benefits of MSM may include an improvement of the following conditions:

INFLAMMATORY DISORDERS: Individuals taking supplemental MSM noted a significant reduction in the pain and inflammation associated with various joint disorders including arthritis.

Skin Problems: Acne, rosacea, eczema and many other common skin disorders, often allergy related, seem to respond to increased MSM consumption.

Detoxification - MSM detoxifies the body and promotes increased blood circulation.

Muscle Cramps - reduces muscle cramps, leg cramps and back pain.
Intestinal problems - MSM may help relieve constipation and reduce stomach acidity.

Antioxidant - MSM is a free radical scavenger.

Insulin production - MSM increases the body's ability to produce insulin and is important for the metabolism of carbohydrates.

Wound Healing - speeds the body's ability to heal wounds and injuries.

Parasites - parasites such as Cryptoporiduim, giardia, salmonella and hookworm are caught and removed before entering the stomach and intestines, MSM produces a coating in which these organisms cannot survive.