Frequently Asked Questions About MSM

Q: How does an effective MSM supplement work?

The key lies in the purity and quality of the methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) used within the formula. This allows the body’s cells to easily absorb sulfur from the MSM and benefit from reducing inflammation and for potent antioxidant activity throughout the body. This results in benefits that include alleviating arthritis symptoms, aiding muscle recovery, boosting skin health, enhancing the immune system and improving joint pain.  Specific key guidelines have been established to significantly influence the benefits you will receive from an MSM supplement. It is not simply enough to have MSM that could have been manufactured in Asia and crystallized. MSM must be distilled in order to eliminate the possibility of contaminants and impurities which occur during the crystallization process. The MSM must also be subject to third-party testing and be GRAS-designated, manufactured in the USA in a cGMP, ISO-registered laboratory for 100% purity. OptiMSM® is the only MSM on the market to have these high standards. The dosage should also be 2000 mg for the best results. Including a healthy serving of BioPerine® ensures that the health benefits of MSM work faster and more effectively.

The correct formula holds the key to success so look for something that contains ingredients backed by scientific data that work to increase absorption of MSM into the bloodstream to be utilized by the cells. The formula should not just be filled with ingredients that only look good on the label, but rather with ingredients that have been clinically proven effective and are backed by scientific research for optimum results. 

Q: Do all MSM supplements work?

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. There are many shady companies that just go along with the latest health supplement trends formulating supplements that contain incorrect ingredients and wrong potency or amounts. Often, they even add unnecessary inactive ingredients or cheap fillers, binders, hormones, artificial colorings and preservatives that can hinder the effects of the active ingredients. Using the crystallization process to isolate the MSM molecule is much cheaper for manufacturers and results in an end product that may contain heavy metals, contaminants and impurities. Do your homework and check the labels to make sure you are taking a quality product with 100% pure MSM. 

Q: What are the important points to look out for?

• It should contain OptiMSM®, the only GRAS-designated MSM for purity, consistency and quality. 
• It should contain a 2000mg daily serving of MSM, which is double the daily dose of most supplements.
• It should undergo distillation, as opposed to the crystallization process which is likely to trap contaminants as the MSM cools.
• It should contain an ingredient to increase MSM absorption into the body for great efficacy and faster results. 
• It should not contain any binders, fillers, additives, hormones, preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• It must be 100% pure, natural and with no unnecessary ingredients that could reduce the effectiveness of the product.
• It should be formulated using the same potency as found effective in clinical studies.

Q: Are there any known side effects to look out for?

Of course, each product is different, so it is always wise to read the label thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Our research analyzed many natural ingredients and products that generally do not present any side effects if used correctly. However, as with any supplement, we recommend consulting with a doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an existing medical condition or are taking regular medication.

Q: What are the dosage instructions for MSM supplements?

Again, this differs between products. Always read the label thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, if you exceed the suggested dosage you could pose health risks to yourself. Generally, we found that most products suggest taking 2 tablets per day. Some people like to take the complete daily serving together at once, but we recommend spacing it out to achieve optimal benefits from the ingredients contained within the formula.

Q: How long before I start to see results?

Some consumers experience positive effects within as little as a week. Whilst, for others, it can take longer. Everybody is different. Results will vary depending on other factors such as the type of diet you consume, lifestyle choices and genetic disposition. There were many manufacturers that offered refunds should you not get the results that you are looking for. Such a guarantee shows the manufacturer’s confidence in its products and the results they predict you will achieve.

Q: What should I expect to pay for a good MSM supplement?

The cost of products varies among manufacturers. Unfortunately, many are cheap, useless supplements that have been formulated without any science-based evidence behind them. Some of these companies are selling their products for over $100 per bottle, which is much too expensive. On average, the best supplements we found are selling between the $40-$50 price range. Often, when products appear cheaper, this is indicative of low quality or a low recommended daily serving, which will not bring the results you are looking for. Be aware. Read the labels.

Q: Which MSM supplement is the best one to buy?

As each person’s experience of a product is different, it is difficult to say specifically which one is the best. That said, based on several factors, we did like Approved Science MSM. We found that from the 50+ products that we analyzed, Approved Science MSM had the best quality of ingredients, potency and strength, consumer feedback and the manufacturer’s customer service.

Of course, it is ultimately your choice. We hope that our research has gone some way in helping you make your choice. If you are looking for a well-researched product that brings effective results, we think that you can’t go far wrong with Approved Science MSM. It is an excellent quality product, with great reviews and is well priced.