Evidence supporting the use of: Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
For the health condition: Inflammation

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Synopsis

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

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a sulfur-containing compound frequently used as a dietary supplement, particularly in the context of supporting joint health and reducing inflammation. The use of MSM for inflammation is primarily justified by scientific studies, although the overall quality and quantity of evidence are moderate, leading to a rating of 2 on a 0-5 scale.

Several clinical trials and preclinical studies have explored the anti-inflammatory effects of MSM. A few randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that MSM supplementation may reduce markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in people with osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Additionally, MSM has been shown to reduce pain and improve physical function in individuals with joint disorders, which may be attributed in part to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Mechanistically, MSM is proposed to inhibit the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, a key regulator of inflammation, and to decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Animal and cell studies also support these findings by demonstrating reduced inflammation and oxidative stress after MSM administration.

However, most human studies to date have been small, with varying methodologies and sometimes inconsistent results. Systematic reviews generally conclude that MSM is "possibly effective" for reducing inflammation, but larger and higher-quality trials are needed. In summary, MSM’s use for inflammation has some scientific backing, but the strength of the evidence remains limited.

More about methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
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