It also inhibits the destruction of joint cartilage. There are few if any negative side effects from taking MSM at usual dosages. Even individuals who are allergic to sulfur-containing drugs can usually take it without any problems. Extremely high dosages of MSM can result in gastrointestinal complaints, but even these will usually disappear when the dosage is decreased. Sulfur is a mineral that is needed for the manufacture of several important sulfur-containing amino acids, which are used in the manufacturing of many proteins including the ones that form hair, skin and muscle.
Sulfur is needed to make bile, which is necessary for the digestion of fat.
It is also a component of teeth, collagen and bones. Sulfur is contained in insulin, which is needed to regulate blood sugar levels. Many potential benefits have been proposed for supplementation of sulfur in the form of MSM, but most of these have not yet been proven due to a lack of scientific research. The greatest benefit for MSM will probably prove to be for the structural system.