MSM is an organic sulfur compound, found naturally in plants, animals, and even humans, has been gaining recognition for its remarkable ability to promote collagen and keratin production – two essential proteins that play crucial roles in maintaining our youthful appearance and general well-being.
MSM and Collagen
Collagen is often referred to as the "glue" that holds our bodies together. It is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structural support to our skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. As we age, our body's ability to produce collagen reduces significantly, leading to wrinkles, joint pain, and other age-related issues. MSM is a one-stop-shop for counteracting these effects and here's why.
MSM works by providing the necessary sulfur compounds required for collagen synthesis. Sulfur is an essential mineral for the formation of disulfide bonds, which are crucial for the stability and strength of collagen fibers. By increasing the body's sulfur levels, MSM can enhance collagen production, leading to healthier, more youthful-looking skin, stronger bones, and improved joint health.
MSM and Keratin
While collagen is the glue that holds us together, keratin is the protein that gives our hair, nails, and skin their strength and resilience. Like collagen, keratin production also requires sulfur compounds, which MSM can provide in abundance.
Hair and Keratin
Hair is composed of 95% keratin, a fibrous, helicoidal protein that is a component of the skin and its appendages, including the hair and nails. It is synthesized by keratinocytes and is insoluble in water, which helps to protect the hair and contributes to its impermeability.
The hair contains 18 amino acids, including proline, threonine, leucine, and arginine. Keratin is particularly rich in cysteine. Cysteine is a sulfurated amino acid that forms disulfide bonds between molecules and thus lends the structure strength and resistance. Aging and excessive exposure of hair to solar irradiation cause dryness, reduced strength, a rough surface texture, loss of color, decreased luster, stiffness, brittleness, and an overall dull, unhealthy appearance.
Studies have shown that MSM can improve keratin production, resulting in stronger, healthier hair and nails that are less prone to breakage and splitting. MSM works by providing the necessary sulfur compounds for keratin synthesis, enabling the formation of disulfide bonds that contribute to the strength and durability of keratin fibers.
Nails and Keratin
Nails are composed of a protective protein called alpha-keratin, which imparts tough rigidity. Nails get their strength from 3 linked keratin layers, where oils and moisture cement and lubricate the nail plate. Functionality results from the nail shape, which mirrors that of the underlying bone. Hair and nails that maintain tight inter-corneocyte connections are generally not subject to desquamation. However, hair is shed through life-cycle programming, and nail corneocytes are eroded due to friction and physical activity.
"MSM may donate sulfur to keratin, which could help strengthen the bonds between keratin molecules in the hair and nails."
By promoting collagen and keratin production, MSM offers a range of potential benefits that extend far beyond just healthy skin and hair:
- Improved Skin Health: Increased collagen production can lead to firmer, more elastic skin with fewer wrinkles and fine lines, giving you a radiant, youthful glow.
- Stronger Bones and Joints: Collagen is essential for maintaining bone density and joint health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and joint degeneration. With MSM supporting collagen production, you can enjoy greater mobility and flexibility as you age.
- Healthier Hair and Nails: Boosted keratin production can result in stronger, more resilient hair and nails, reducing breakage and promoting growth. Say goodbye to split ends and brittle nails!
- Faster Wound Healing: Collagen plays a crucial role in the wound healing process, and increased collagen production can accelerate tissue repair, helping you recover from injuries more quickly.
- Reduced Inflammation: MSM has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate joint pain, muscle soreness, and other inflammatory conditions.
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