THE SUPERFOOD SERIES: What is MSM?

In the past few years MSM has become one of those acronyms that we are familiar with by sight but, have no idea what it means.  I was introduced to it a couple of years ago. There is a spot in NYC called High Vibes which, sells all organic and live products.  I am a serious product junkie and they carry an MSM lotion there that I fell in love with for a bit.  That led me to asking questions and researching what the actual benefits of MSM are.  MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane, a type of organic sulfur derived from ocean plants, such as algae.  Sulfur is an essential mineral, that we need to replenish for everyday nutrition, like calcium, iron, and zinc.  A large part of the body's sulfur is concentrated in the muscles, skin, and bones.  This explains why you will see MSM mostly, in prepared lotions and salves or suggested by most, if you suffer from any joint discomfort, or form of arthritis.  In vitamin form, always accompany MSM with vitamin C for complete absorption.  It is an important source of keratin, the building block of hair, skin, and nails, and is necessary for the body's manufacture of collagen.  It provides the body with the necessary raw materials to create new cells, helps the body resist bacteria, disinfects the blood, protects against toxic substances and the effects of radiation and pollution.  It also assists in slowing down the aging process.  Its ill because I saw a commercial last night, where they were actually advertising botox as a healthy healing option.  The catch phrase was something like, "it doesn't have to be all over your face."  Its more important to find out the various enzymes, minerals, and nutrients that are readily available in the foods that we eat.  The body is well equipped to heal itself from just about anything that we put it through, that includes aging, and all of the other aesthetics that society is so consumed by.  We would rather pay crazy amounts of money to have a procedure done or find some miracle serum to polish the outside.  Its really about doing the internal work and honoring that if you give a little, nature will do the rest.  MSM is not only good for hair, skin, and nails.  It is helpful for most allergy symptoms, parasites, constipation, heartburn, arthritis, muscle soreness, cramps, diabetes, cataracts, lung disorders, etc.  We suggest that you take certain supplements if you feel that you are not getting your full supply through the foods that you eat but, healing through your foods is truly the best way to get any enzyme, mineral, or nutrient.  Other sources of sulfur besides MSM are: Fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products which, should all be organic or free range, if nothing else.  Many of our meats and dairy products are genetically modified, buying organic will help to protect you from this.  The vegetarian sources of sulfur are: garlic, onions, cabbage, dried beans, soybeans, kale, turnips, wheat germ, broccoli, and brussel sprouts.  Again, the quality of life that you live is not up to your praticioner or doctor, its about the commitment that you make to your own healing.  Be patient with all of the processes and delight in the new awareness that will come from it.  Be well...Bless..