Customers that come into our shop often think we’re a bit crazy when we tell them about the incredible health benefits of MSM… How could a cellphone message have anything to do with oxygenating my blood, increasing hair growth or relieving joint pain? No, we gently explain, what we’re talking about has nothing to do with texting or technology even; MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is actually an organic sulphur compound that is completely natural and found in every cell of every living organism on earth. 

.
The next point of confusion occurs when the word ‘sulphur’ is mentioned. What is important here is that MSM is an organic form of sulphur whereas sulphites or sulphates (used as preservatives in many pharmaceutical medications, wines and foodstuffs) are inorganic and can cause unpleasant reactions in sensitive individuals such as asthmatic attacks, severe headaches, rashes, hot flushes etc.  
.

So to clear up any confusion, MSM is considered safe and one of the least toxic substances in biology, similar in toxicity to water! And far from producing allergenic reactions (like inorganic sulphur), MSM is actually a natural anti-histamine! 
 .

MSM is produced via the earth's sulphur cycle. It starts out as a by-product of algae growing in the oceans (remember the wonderful blue-green algae I wrote about?!) which is then evapourated into the clouds. When it rains MSM falls to the earth where it is rapidly absorbed and concentrated by plant roots, finally becoming food and nutrition for all life forms. 
. 

Needless to say, fresh fruit and vegetables that are watered by rain or sulphur-rich water contain the highest concentrations of MSM. Especially pine bark, pine needles, pine nuts, aloe vera, blue-green algae and spirulina, wild grasses such as rocket, watercress and kale, and foods with a characteristic spicy, heating effect such as garlic, onion, mustard, chillies, radishes and peppers.
. 

Due to the volatile nature of MSM, it is rapidly lost in the presence of heat. This obviously includes most methods of food preparation, cooking and processing! Also during long periods of storage or refrigeration, when there is an absence of water or hydration, MSM is severely depleted. 
. 

So, taking into account the consumerism-based food industry as well as our current dietary patterns (unless of course you mostly consume raw organic foods!), it is more than likely that you are not receiving enough MSM to realise its tremendous health benefits.
 .

I could’ve written an entire book on this section, but don’t worry I have summarised as many points as I could to give you a fine idea of how incredible this little compound really is! 
 .

And these are just a few! MSM also helps regulate insulin production, has anti-cancer effects, dramatically improves cases of osteoporosis, Alzheimers and Parkinson’s disease, reduces diverticulitis, alleviates emphysema and PMS and helps balance acid, enzyme and hormonal levels… and there are still more!
 .

First of all start by increasing the amounts of raw sulphur-rich fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Salads, smoothies and fresh juices are all great ways of deliciously and conveniently consuming more MSM. 
. 

MSM also comes in powder, tablets or capsules (make sure it is a pure source) It can safely be taken with other medications although it is always recommended that a doctor be consulted before you take anything in addition to your prescription medication. 
 .

It is best to start with the lowest dose and build up due to MSM’s powerful detoxifying effects. Come pay us a visit at LIFESTYLE HEALTH and we would be happy to recommend the correct beneficial amount for you. And as mentioned before, MSM loves water, so drink plenty, and if possible supplement with a high dose of vitamin C to even further enhance the benefits of MSM. 
. 

And as with most supplements, have a little patience, because it can take as long as 2 months to see a result (depending on how deficient in MSM you are). However, don’t give up because as MSM levels are restored back to their normal high levels, you should experience tremendous improvements in your health!