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MSM (MethylSulfonylMethane) is a naturally-occurring form of sulphur compound that is produced by ocean plankton, and can be found naturally in foods such as cow's milk, meat, seafood (e.g. kelp), fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
- MSM is extremely water soluble and evaporates quickly.
- It is destroyed by cooking and during storage.
- As the body ages, the concentration of MSM in the body begins to decrease, so deficiencies may occur as part of the aging process.
- A low concentration of MSM in the body may result in both physical and psychological stress, organ and tissue malfunction and fatigue.
- In the case of dogs, sulphur deficiencies will result in dull fur or skin problems, poor GI and immune systems, and joint pain and arthritis.
Functions of MSM
MSM has been found to be an invaluable substance that can greatly benefit not only animals - dogs and horses in particular, but also humans!
Its main functions and benefits are:
Cell-Rejuvenator
As sulphur is stored in almost all living cells, MSM is essential for maintaining and supporting healthy cells.
It has a unique action on body tissues, decreasing pressure inside the cell, making cell walls permeable, enabling water and nutrients to flow into the cells and allowing toxins to flow out.
Working with Vitamin C, MSM enables the body to rejuvenate cells and maintain healthy levels of cells.
It is also responsible for the flexible bonds between cells, including those that make up the skin.
MSM enhances tissue flexibility and promotes repair of damaged skin.
Antioxidant
MSM is an antioxidant as it helps to clean the blood stream and flush toxins from the cells.
It is also a "scavenger" of foreign protein and free radicals.
It makes the cell walls permeable, so many toxins can be eliminated through the skin, easing the burden on the liver and kidneys.
While MSM itself is not a cure for allergies, it may help reduce symptoms by allowing allergens to be removed from the body more quickly.
Joint Healer
Most of the total body's sulphur is stored in the muscles, skin, hair, and bones.
One of the most important functions of MSM is its effectiveness to relieve pain and inflammation. When rigid fibrous tissue cells (such as joint cells) swell and become inflamed, pressure and pain result.
Since MSM can restore flexibility and permeability to cell walls, fluids can pass through the tissues more easily. This helps equalize pressure and reduce or even eliminate the cause of pain resulting from inflammation.
MSM for Dogs - What Can MSM do for Animals
MSM supplements are mainly given to animals, particuallry dogs and horses, for:
- joint and connective tissue support
- relief of pain as a result of arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint problems
- maintenance of healthy skin and hair
- relief of some allergy symptoms
MSM has been credited with providing anti-parasitic action against giardia and intestinal worms by blocking parasites by competing for receptor sites on the mucous membrane of the intestines. When parasites cannot attach themselves, they are simply flushed out of the system. |