Let me start by saying this: If you had asked me a couple of years ago which supplement I’d recommend above all others, my answer would have been vastly different. Back then, I wasn’t big on supplements.
But now? Things have changed. A lot.
As someone who has been on a nearly four-year journey of microdosing and optimizing my health, I’ve learned that supplements can play a crucial role in both mental and physical well-being. In a previous episode, I shared a detailed list of all the supplements I take. But today, I’m going to focus on just one.
If someone told me I could only take one supplement for the rest of my life, I know exactly what it would be: MSM.
What is MSM?
MSM stands for Methylsulfonylmethane, a sulfur compound found naturally in plants, animals, and humans. It’s often touted for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and honestly, it has completely changed the game for me.
If you’re wondering why MSM has become my go-to, let me break it down.
Why MSM?
1. Anti-inflammatory powerhouse
Chronic inflammation is a silent killer. It doesn’t just harm your physical health—it wreaks havoc on your mental health too. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Everything in the body is connected. If you’re dealing with inflammation, you’re far more likely to experience anxiety and depression. MSM helps tackle inflammation at its core, reducing symptoms associated with arthritis, chronic pain, and more.
For me, this was the primary reason I started taking MSM. Having dealt with arthritis in my knees, I needed something to support my joints so I could keep doing the activities I love, like running and skiing. MSM has been a game-changer in this department.
2. Skin, hair, and nails? Yes, please!
This was an unexpected bonus. MSM promotes the production of keratin and collagen, which are essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. I’ve struggled with psoriasis for decades, and while going gluten-free significantly helped, it wasn’t a complete fix. Enter MSM.
Since adding MSM to my routine, my psoriasis has disappeared. My skin feels healthy, my nails are stronger, and my hair looks thicker than it has in years. It’s not a miracle—it’s science. The sulfur content in MSM supports cellular repair, making it a beauty booster I didn’t even know I needed.
3. Mental health benefits
This is why I’m sharing this with you today. MSM’s anti-inflammatory properties don’t just help your body—they help your brain. By reducing chronic inflammation, MSM can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. I’ve experienced firsthand how improving my physical health has led to a calmer, more focused mind.
If you’re on a journey to improve your mental health, MSM might be worth considering. While it’s not a replacement for therapy, microdosing, or other tools, it can be an incredible addition to your mental wellness toolkit.
4. Energy and recovery
I’ve noticed a surprising boost in my energy levels since taking MSM. Whether I’m skiing or just tackling my day-to-day activities, I feel more vibrant and resilient. MSM also aids in muscle recovery, making it perfect for anyone who leads an active lifestyle.
How to take MSM
I take 4 grams per day, split into two doses: 2 grams in the morning and 2 grams at night. Each capsule I use contains 1,000 milligrams (1 gram), so it’s easy to measure. While this is what works for me, MSM is incredibly flexible. You can start with a smaller dose and gradually increase it based on how you feel.
Here’s the thing: MSM isn’t a quick fix. You won’t wake up the day after your first dose and feel like a new person. But stick with it. Over time, the benefits build, and you’ll start noticing changes in how you feel, look, and move.
Is MSM safe?
Yes. MSM is considered extremely safe, with minimal to no side effects. Of course, everyone’s body is different, so if you have any concerns—especially if you have a medical condition or take other medications—talk to your doctor first.
For those with autoimmune conditions, MSM’s anti-inflammatory properties may be especially beneficial. While I’m not a medical professional, I’ve done extensive research and found nothing but positive feedback on MSM for autoimmune support. (And yes, psoriasis is considered an autoimmune condition, which is another reason I believe MSM has helped me so much.)
What makes MSM special?
There are plenty of supplements out there, but MSM stands out for its versatility. It doesn’t just target one area—it supports your joints, skin, hair, nails, immune system, and mental health. That’s a lot of bang for your buck.
Plus, MSM works well alongside other health strategies. For me, it’s part of a larger routine that includes microdosing, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, journaling, and exercising regularly. It’s not about one magic pill; it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your well-being.
Final thoughts…
If you’re struggling with inflammation, anxiety, or just want to improve your overall health, MSM is worth considering. For me, it’s been a transformative addition to my daily routine. While it’s not a cure-all, it’s a powerful tool that has improved my quality of life in ways I didn’t expect.
If you decide to give MSM a try, be patient and consistent. Like anything worth doing, the results take time. But trust me—it’s worth it.
Let’s connect
I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried MSM? Are you curious about adding it to your routine? Send me a message, subscribe to my email list, join us over on Patreon, or comment on this post—I’m always here to help. And if you found this helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit.
As always, thank you for being here with me on this journey. Your health and happiness matter, and I’m honored to be a part of your path to feeling better every day.
With love,
Dr. Dave
