The Meaning of MSM: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know the definition of MSM? This article will provide you with all of the information you need on the abbreviation MSM, including its definition, usage, and more!

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What does the acronym MSM mean?

According to Healthline and WebMD, MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane. This supplement is a chemical that is found in humans, animale, and many plants, and many people use it to treat arthritis. People often take capsules by mouth or apply MSM to the skin to lessen inflammation. MSM can be produced in a lab and is often combined with other supplements such as glucosamine or chondroitin. 

People take MSM as a dietary supplement to treat a wide variety of pain and swelling from problems such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, or tenosynovitis. It can also be used to treat gastrointestinal problems such as chronic constipation, ulcers, hemorrhoids, or the bowel disease diverticulosis. People also take it to help with obesity, liver problems, HIV, rosacea, cancer, joint pain, allergies after exposure, repetitive stress injuries, certain bladder disorders like interstitial cystitis, wounds, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, snoring, gum disease, infections and lung problems.

There have been numerous studies odone with MSM in which participants experienced a significant increase in energy compared to those with the placebo. The FDA recognizes MSM supplements as safe, generally. Some people may experience mild potential side effects like nausea, bloating and diarrhea. This anti-inflammatory can help support joints, aid stiffness, and boost your immune system. It has proven helpful for knee osteoarthritis. You can also find MSM as a powder that you can mix into a liquid such as a protein shake. Usually people take around 1500 mg per day. Some people take up to 3 grams of MSM per day in a capsule or powder form.

This form of alternative medicine can help relieve inflammation from an allergen or allergic reaction to things such as animal dander, pollen, molds or mice by reducing oxidative stress, allergy symptoms and allergic rhinitis. These symptoms include watery eyes and reduced physical function. It can help with pain in the hips and knees after you run a half marathon. People usually have minimal side effects or adverse reactions and high efficacy.

According to The Free Dictionary, the term MSM can stand for much more than just methylsulfonylmethane. This acronym has a plethora of other definitions. However, these are less common and should be used sparingly. If you do decide to use one of these alternate definitions in the same context in which you would use MSM to mean methylsulfonylmethane, make sure that you provide the proper context or use the full form so that the listener is not confused. 

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How can the acronym MSM be used in a sentence?

Overall, the abbreviation MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane, which is used to alleviate arthritis symptoms or other discomfort caused by inflammation. MSM can also stand for Men who have Sex with Men whien discussing HIV prevention strategies.

Sources:

  1. MSM – What does MSM stand for? | The Free Dictionary 
  2. Top 8 Health Benefits of MSM Supplements | Healthline 
  3. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): Uses and Risks | WebMD