Research suggests that MSM may support exercise recovery through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, with studies pointing to potential benefits in reducing muscle pain, managing oxidative stress, and modulating immune responses triggered by physical exertion. The available evidence includes a small randomized controlled pilot trial examining gene expression changes in runners following a half-marathon, a narrative review synthesizing findings from animal and human studies, and in vitro cell culture work exploring MSM's protective effects against hypoxia-related muscle damage — all directionally supportive, though none conclusively definitive. Studies indicate that MSM is generally well-tolerated and holds recognized safety status, which has encouraged its investigation across a range of exercise-related outcomes. However, the overall body of evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, the inclusion of preclinical and cell-based research that has not yet been replicated in humans, and a general need for larger, more rigorous trials before firm conclusions can be drawn about its effectiveness for exercise recovery.
Citations from PubMed and preprint sources. Match score (0-100) reflects automated search ranking, not clinical appraisal.
| Title | Type | Year | Direction | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Using the Rise and Fall of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Post-Exercise to... | RCT | 2025 | Supports | 97 |
| Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. | Review | 2017 | Supports | 80 |
| Methylsulfonylmethane relieves cobalt chloride-induced hypoxic toxicity in C2... | Other | 2022 | Supports | 62 |