What is MSM and Why Do People Use It?
Methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM, is an organic, sulfur-containing compound found naturally in some plants, animals, and the human body. It is widely used as a dietary supplement, often alongside other joint-supporting compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin, to help manage pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis. The therapeutic effects are thought to be related to its role as a key sulfur source, which is important for the synthesis of amino acids like methionine and cysteine, and the powerful antioxidant glutathione.
Can MSM Damage Kidneys? The Evidence from Research
For healthy individuals, research indicates that MSM does not cause kidney damage when used at standard doses. Several studies support this finding:
- Human Clinical Trials: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the use of MSM for back pain found no significant adverse effects on metabolic, liver, or kidney function over a 16-week period. Kidney function was monitored using creatinine levels, which showed no significant changes between the MSM and placebo groups. Another safety analysis of a different trial also concluded that MSM was well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects on kidney function.
- Animal Studies: Toxicity studies conducted on animals, including rats, have shown that MSM is well-tolerated even at very high doses. One study concluded that rats given MSM at 1.5 g/kg daily for 90 days showed no adverse events or changes in renal histology.
Potential Protective Effects on Kidneys
Interestingly, some research suggests that MSM's antioxidant properties might even offer protective effects in specific, medically induced kidney injury models. One animal study investigated the curative effects of MSM in a rat model of acute renal failure (ARF) induced by glycerol injection. The results showed that MSM treatment significantly reduced elevated levels of blood urea and serum creatinine, suggesting a protective effect against kidney injury, likely due to its antioxidant activity. This highlights MSM's potential, though more research is needed to determine relevance for human kidney disease.
How MSM's Role as a Sulfur Donor Affects the Body
MSM's primary mechanism of action involves supplying the body with organic sulfur. Sulfur is an essential mineral with numerous functions.
- Protein Synthesis: It is a vital component of the amino acids methionine and cysteine, which are building blocks for proteins.
- Antioxidant Production: It is crucial for the synthesis of glutathione, one of the body's most powerful antioxidants that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Connective Tissue Health: It is a building block for collagen and glucosamine, which are essential for maintaining healthy connective tissues like cartilage and joints.
General Safety Profile and Mild Side Effects
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given MSM a "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) designation, noting it is well-tolerated by most individuals at dosages up to four grams daily. For most people, side effects are mild and may include gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, bloating, or diarrhea. These effects often subside as the body adjusts to the supplement.
Who Needs to Be Cautious About MSM?
While MSM is safe for most people, certain individuals should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation. These groups include:
- Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease: While studies show no harm to healthy kidneys, research on the safety of MSM in those with compromised renal function is limited. It is crucial to get medical clearance to avoid potential complications.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Due to a lack of sufficient safety data, MSM is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.
- Individuals taking blood thinners: The Arthritis Foundation advises that people on blood thinners, such as warfarin, should avoid MSM due to potential interactions and risk of bleeding.
- Those with varicose veins: WebMD notes that topical MSM might increase swelling and pain in people with chronic venous insufficiency.
MSM vs. Other Joint Supplements
| Feature | MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) | Glucosamine | Chondroitin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Reduces inflammation, provides sulfur for connective tissues, acts as an antioxidant. | Supports cartilage health and formation. | Supports cartilage elasticity and prevents breakdown. |
| Primary Mechanism | Sulfur donor and anti-inflammatory agent. | Substrate for cartilage synthesis. | Inhibits enzymes that degrade cartilage. |
| Kidney Impact | Generally considered safe for healthy kidneys at typical doses; limited long-term data and data for kidney disease patients. | Generally considered safe, but caution advised for kidney disease due to potential interactions and electrolyte balance. | Generally considered safe, but limited data on long-term use and safety in kidney disease patients. |
| Common Side Effects | Mild gastrointestinal issues (nausea, bloating, diarrhea), headaches, skin rash. | Mild gastrointestinal issues, nausea, heartburn. | Mild gastrointestinal issues, nausea, potential impact on blood pressure. |
Conclusion
For most healthy individuals taking it within recommended dosages, current research indicates that MSM does not cause damage to the kidneys and is a relatively safe supplement. Some animal studies even suggest potential protective effects due to its antioxidant properties. However, the long-term safety data, particularly for individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions or other health issues, is less comprehensive. Therefore, it is crucial for anyone with kidney problems, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those on blood thinners to consult a healthcare provider before taking MSM. By understanding the science and being aware of personal health factors, individuals can make informed decisions about nutritional supplementation.
For more information on MSM and its applications, you can consult sources like the National Institutes of Health.
