There is strong evidence from many studies that Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and certain food-sourced Unsaponifiables relieve pain and inflammation and protect and repair connective tissue. Although these substances may take days or weeks to show results, they do so without the serious side effects associated with commercial pain relievers.
The Story of MSM
Dr. Stanley Jacob discovered that a by-product of wood processing could go through skin into joints and muscles, relieve pain and speed healing. DMSO was approved in 1978 as the prescription drug Rimso for interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder condition, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Side effects of DMSO include skin irritation and garlicky odor.
Although related structurally to DMSO, MSM taken orally is effective in relieving pain and inflammation and increases circulation without the side effects associated with DMSO. MSM is an organic form of sulfur. It has a slight aspirin-like effect and should not be combined with blood thinning medication without the knowledge and advice of a doctor.
In studies on low back pain, a dose of 3,000 mg of MSM twice a day was shown to help prevent joint and connective tissue breakdown (Eisenberg DM, Post DE, Davis RB, et al. Spine. 2007). Follow label directions, increasing doses slowly over two to eight weeks until relief is obtained.
The Benefits of Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glycosaminoglycans are components that build cartilage to cushion joints. Glucosamine stimulates the body's production of glycosaminoglycans. Sulfur (MSM), is necessary for the manufacture and repair of joint tissues and Glucosamine assists sulfur entry into cells. MSM and Glucosamine work well together. Clinical studies indicate Glucosamine may slow the progression of osteoarthritis (Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, et al, New England Journal of Medicine, 2006). Glucosamine has been known to raise blood sugar and should not be used by diabetics without consulting a doctor.
Chondroitin molecules hold moisture and block enzymes that break down cartilage in joints by the absorption of fluid in connective tissue. Chondroitin has a protective effect that enhances the effects of Glucosamine and MSM (Clegg DO, Reda DJ, Harris CL, et al, New England Journal of Medicine, 2006). Chondroitin, like MSM, is a mild anti-coagulant (blood-thinner).
The Promise of Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables
These substances moisturize, lubricate, and give texture to connective tissue. They stimulate cartilage repair and reduce inflammation. The protective effect of Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables is so strong that they are currently a prescription drug used to treat knee and hip osteoarthritis in France. The substance, available in many countries in health food stores, is extremely concentrated and cannot be obtained from a dietary intake of avocados and soybeans. As with MSM, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine, the best results are achieved with consistent use.
Add Omega-3 Fatty Acids to the Diet
These good fats reduce inflammation--good news for joints that are stiff and sore. Sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids are coldwater fish, blue-green algae (Spirulina or AFA), walnuts, flax, and chia seeds.
For arthritis sufferers as well as those with sports injuries, there are alternatives to living with pain and the side effects of medication. The Arthritis Foundation states that there is no good time to have arthritis, but modern advances in research make the diagnosis much less painful.
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