MSM: Cellular Detox & Joint Health

I maintain a fairly consistent exercise routine: twice a week I do cardio or HIIT to stimulate metabolism, which tends to slow down with hormonal fluctuations; I include some strength training to target specific muscle groups; and I mostly rely on gentle, joint-friendly activities like Pilates and yoga. I also love playing tennis and, in winter, skiing (my only reason to love the cold).

However, tennis and skiing are both quite demanding on the knees. Over time, the combination of impact and age has taken its toll. My knee started to click and occasionally give way, especially when twisting or going up and down the stairs—and that’s never a good sign.

I replaced my morning warm water with lemon with a spoonful of curcumin (turmeric) and black pepper, started taking collagen type II (the form recommended for joint health), vitamin C to support collagen absorption, and omega-3. Then a supplement I had—until now—largely ignored came to mind, one specifically designed to help reduce inflammation by supporting cellular detoxification: MSM.

What Is MSM?

MSM is short for methylsulfonylmethane, a naturally occurring sulfur compound widely used in complementary and alternative medicine. It is often taken as a natural alternative to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.

Scientific research suggests that MSM may help reduce joint pain, inflammation, and symptoms associated with arthritis, as well as inflammation caused by repetitive or intense exercise. While research is still evolving, MSM supplementation is becoming increasingly popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for exercise recovery and joint support.

In nature, MSM is part of the Earth’s sulfur cycle. It originates in the oceans, becomes aerosolized, and—after oxidation—returns to the earth through precipitation. This process nourishes the soil where plants and fruits grow, making MSM a natural component of our food supply.

The MSM available as a supplement is synthetically produced through an energy-intensive distillation process. This method preserves the molecular structure of naturally occurring MSM while allowing for concentrated doses—amounts that would be nearly impossible to obtain through diet alone without consuming huge quantities of fruits and vegetables.

MSM detoxifies the body lowering inflammation and increasing energy.

How Does MSM Work?

Thanks to its high bioavailability, MSM is rapidly absorbed through cell membranes and distributed throughout body tissues. Its benefits are linked to several key mechanisms:

Anti-inflammatory support

MSM helps reduce inflammation by lowering the production of nitric oxide, a vasodilator (also found in foods like beets) that plays a role in inflammatory signaling. By modulating this pathway, MSM may help calm connective tissue inflammation and reduce the release of histamine involved in allergic and inflammatory responses.

Antioxidant activity

MSM helps balance levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS)—highly reactive molecules responsible for oxidative stress and cellular damage—while supporting the body’s natural antioxidant enzymes. This contributes to cellular protection and overall tissue health.

Immune system regulation

Rather than overstimulating the immune system, MSM supports a more balanced immune response. Chronic stress can push the immune system into a constant state of overdrive, leading to ongoing inflammation. MSM may help counteract this effect. It has also been associated with improved wound healing and tissue repair.

The makers of Hi! have developed a highly bioavailable form of MSM designed to help the body eliminate heavy metals and other environmental toxins. By supporting detoxification at the cellular level, MSM may help increase energy, enhance immunity, and improve overall resilience.

As with everything in wellness, true healing requires a multi-pronged approach: adequate rest and recovery, an anti-inflammatory diet, appropriate movement, and—perhaps most importantly—patience.

If you’re dealing with joint pain, inflammation, or slow recovery from exercise, MSM may be worth exploring as part of a holistic routine.

Try it—and let us know how it works for you.