MSM is a research-backed dietary supplement that’s been shown to mitigate oxidative stress, reduce damage, soreness and pain associated with strenuous activity and exercise and helps support exercise recovery and performance.
Research suggests MSM is an effective supplement for supporting athletic training. When training, damage can occur to muscles, joints and connective tissues, causing pain and inhibiting benefits. MSM can reduce damage and soreness after intensive training, increasing training time and benefits.
Several studies have shown that MSM can reduce levels of oxidative stress and muscle damage following exercise. In one study, following distance running MSM was able to reduce levels of MDA and protein carbonyls, markers of oxidative stress, and increase glutathione levels. In another, MSM was able to reduce levels of creatine kinase (CK), an indicator of muscle damage.
One aspect of MSM’s mechanisms is particularly important for exercise. Oxidative stress can be both a positive and negative aspect of exercise. At healthy levels, oxidative stress signals the need for adaptation and muscle growth. However, when the level of oxidative stress is too high, it causes cellular damage that impedes growth and adaptation. MSM is not a direct antioxidant, so it will not impede the normal healthy growth induced by lower levels of oxidation. Instead, it supports the body’s natural pathways like glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. It helps prevent the damaging levels while not impeding the healthy levels of oxidation.
MSM is also able to reduce levels of pain associated with exercise, which is especially important for individuals just starting an exercise routine. One of the most common reasons people end or postpone their training regimens is due to pain and soreness associated with exercise. So by reducing pain and soreness, it increases the likelihood of training persistence and continued focus on health and fitness goals.
*Please visit the RESEARCH section for supporting information and published studies