Study Stretches MSM's Joint Health Benefits

VANCOUVER, Wash.A new study published in April's  FASEB Journal strengthens methylsulfonylmethane's (MSM) link to exercise recovery by reducing soreness after increased exercise stress.

In the study, 24 healthy men randomly received 3.0 gm/d of MSM (as OptiMSM from study funder Bergstrom Nutrition) or placebo for 14 days. The men were tested at baseline, with no product and following supplementation with both MSM and placebo. Participants performed leg extensions until muscle failure, and researchers measured muscle discomfort/pain, inflammation, blood antioxidant status and homocysteine before and after exercise.

According to scientists from Miami Research Associates, MSM supplementation resulted in significantly less plain and discomfort compared to placebo: 1.55 versus 3.75 on the 10-point VAS scale. Inflammatory markers also were significantly benefitted by the MSM.

This helps us paint a clearer picture of how MSM works to minimize the muscle damage and soreness caused by exercise, which means less recovery time and a quicker return to daily activities," said Tim Hammond, director of sales and strategic relations for Bergstrom Nutrition. The data also pointed to MSMs effect on overall wellness as it supports antioxidant activity, helping maintain the bodys natural levels of glutathionethe bodys most powerful protector."

MSM's effects on short-term recovery have been well documented. Learn more about the ingredient's joint health benefits in the INSIDER feature, "MSM for Joints and Athletic Recovery."