There is no evidence to suggest a direct link between MSM and weight gain.
However, there have been some anecdotal reports regarding side effects such as bloating and water retention, which may result in a temporary gain in water weight.
Many supplements have minimal side effects that are often harmless for most individuals, and while it appears MSM is safe for most people, not everyone will be free of the potential side effects.
So, is there an explanation for the concern around MSM and weight gain? What about MSM and weight loss?
Read on to find out!
What is MSM?
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organic, white crystalline, sulfur-containing substance found naturally in plants, animals, and humans.
MSM is quite simply a building block nutrient that plays an important role in the formation of collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, all making up our cartilage and connective tissues.
MSM is also available as a joint supplement, usually combined with the likes of glucosamine and chondroitin, other effective joint supplements that are known to work very well together.
People supplement with MSM for many reasons, including supporting healthy joints, speeding up muscle recovery, and reducing inflammation.
Let’s briefly look at the most common uses of MSM!
Common Uses of MSM
MSM for Reducing Inflammation
MSM may help reduce inflammation and, as a result, helps ease pain and swelling associated with arthritic conditions, as well as reducing the effects of exercise-induced muscle inflammation and seasonal allergies.1
MSM for Joint Support
MSM is most commonly known as a joint supplement, helping to relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritic conditions.
Additionally, MSM also increases the effectiveness of other compounds such as glucosamine and chondroitin, further helping to preserve cartilage to support joints and improve range of motion.1
MSM for Muscle Recovery
MSM is thought to help reduce exercise-induced oxidation, which is what causes sore muscles after a workout. This means MSM effectively speeds up muscle recovery after exercise by utilizing its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.1
MSM for Healthy Immune Function
Research shows MSM is effective in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which weaken the immune system.
MSM also helps increase levels of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that promotes healthy immune system function.1
So, now that we have covered the main uses, let’s discuss the potential link between MSM and body weight changes.
MSM: Does It Cause Weight Gain?
There is currently no evidence to suggest a direct link between MSM supplementation and weight gain at the time of writing.
However, there have been some anecdotal reports of certain side effects which may affect body weight. These side effects include water retention and bloating, which some people may experience on high doses of MSM.
When our bodies retain water, causing us to feel bloated, we could potentially gain a few pounds. Though it’s important to note that weight gain as a result of water retention isn’t causing your body to store and/or gain more fat, it’s simply just an increase in water weight.
So, as you can probably guess, ceasing supplementation would likely reverse this side effect.
As with any supplement that causes side effects like this, it would be a good idea to decrease the dosage to see if your body tolerates it better. Though, if your side effects concern you, you should seek advice from your doctor.
To avoid side effects like this altogether, we would recommend starting on a low dose. Research has actually suggested MSM is effective in low doses when combined with other joint supplements, so you don’t actually need to supplement in such high doses as is commonly suggested.
Performance Lab Flex is a excellent example of a joint supplement that contains MSM alongside the likes of glucosamine, chondroitin, curcumin, and many others that promote and support healthy joints. Flex contains 100m OptiMSM®, which is the purest and best quality MSM available.
If you’re wondering, “How Much MSM Should I Take?”, learn more in our linked guide!
MSM and Weight Loss
While MSM does not directly cause weight gain, only potentially as a result of a temporary side effect, have you ever thought of the potential link between MSM and weight loss?
There has been some speculation around the potential for MSM to assist with weight loss indirectly. Let’s explore!
MSM is commonly used as an anti-inflammatory and reliever of joint pain. If an individual was to find some relief from joint pain through supplementing with MSM, they may find physical activity and exercise easier, which may draw a link between increased activity and weight loss.
To put it simply, less joint pain means more movement, and more movement means more energy burned, and increased energy burn may result in weight loss.
While there is no concrete evidence to suggest a direct link between MSM and weight loss, it is definitely an interesting concept!
Key Take-Homes
MSM is the building block of our cartilage and connective tissues, alongside other essential compounds such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen.
MSM supplementation is thought to help reduce inflammation, relieve joint pain and stiffness, and boost our immunity.
While there is no direct link between MSM supplementation and weight gain, water retention and bloating are noted side effects that may result in minor weight gain.
If you experience side effects of MSM, it’s important to lower the dosage, and seek advice from your doctor if you’re unsure.
Low doses of MSM, such as the dose contained in Performance Lab Flex, have been shown to be safe and effective, and very well-tolerated among most individuals.
References
- Butawan M, Benjamin RL, Bloomer RJ. Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients. 2017;9(3):290. Published 2017 Mar 16.
