Health Guide

Methylmethionine sulfonium

Have you ever heard of **Methylmethionine Sulfonium (MMS)**? It might sound like a complex chemical, but it's actually a natural derivative of the amino acid methionine, often called 'Vitamin U' (though it's not a true vitamin). Found abundantly in fresh vegetables and juices, MMS is a powerhouse for cellular health, particularly known for its protective effects on the stomach lining. Think of it as nature's soothing agent, helping to keep your digestive system running smoothly and protecting tissues from oxidative stress.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

MMS Bioavailability by Source

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Absorption Efficiency

Source Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Stomach Protection: Helps prevent the formation of ulcers and soothes the digestive lining.
Cellular Defense: Acts as a potent methyl donor, essential for DNA repair and detoxification.
Mucus Thinning: Helps break down stubborn mucus in the body, aiding respiratory health.
Liver Support: Assists in fat metabolism, keeping your liver healthy.

Deep Dive

MMS works primarily by donating methyl groups to your body's biochemical processes (a process called methylation). This is crucial for almost every function in your cells, from repairing DNA to producing antioxidants like glutathione. Historically, MMS gained fame as 'Vitamin U' for its ability to heal gastric ulcers. It helps regenerate the mucosal lining of your stomach, acting as a barrier against acid. Furthermore, by thinning mucus, it helps clear congestion in the respiratory tract, making it a favorite for those with chronic bronchial issues.

Natural Food Sources

The best way to get MMS is through whole, raw foods. Cooking can degrade this sensitive compound, so fresh is best.

Food	Amount	Notes
Raw Cabbage Juice	~150mg per cup	The most concentrated source
Spinach	Moderate	Best eaten raw in salads
Horse Radish	High	Potent source
Beets	Moderate	Good for liver health
Oranges	Low-Moderate	Easily accessible source

Supplementation

While eating vegetables is ideal, MMS is available as a dietary supplement for those needing higher therapeutic doses. It is often used to support gastric health or during detox protocols. Standard doses in studies range from 500mg to 1,500mg daily, but always follow the label instructions or consult a healthcare provider.

Top Food Sources

Raw Cabbage Juice

150mg+ per 8oz

Horse Radish

Fresh root is best

Spinach

Raw leaves

Beets

Supports liver

Oranges

Convenient snack

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely not. That dangerous industrial bleach is often incorrectly abbreviated as MMS. Methylmethionine Sulfonium is a safe, natural nutrient found in food.

For general health, yes. However, for therapeutic use (like healing ulcers), raw cabbage juice or supplements are often recommended for higher concentrations.

Yes, it is heat-sensitive. Steaming lightly is better than boiling, but raw consumption preserves the most.

It was discovered in the 1950s and named 'Vitamin U' for its unique ability to prevent and heal ulcers (U for Ulcer).

Safety & Side Effects

Methylmethionine Sulfonium is considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) when consumed via food. As a supplement, it is generally well-tolerated. However, because it increases stomach acid secretion, individuals with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or severe acid reflux should use caution. There are no known severe drug interactions, but those with kidney disease should consult a doctor before taking high doses of any amino acid derivative.

Scientific References

[1]GAGinella, T.S., et al. (1979). 'Vitamin U (S-methylmethionine): Anti-ulcer agent.' *Gastroenterology*.
[2]Marchetti, M., et al. (2013). 'Methyl donors and liver health.' *Nutrients*.
[3]Creasy, L.L., et al. (1968). 'The biosynthesis of S-methylmethionine in plants.' *Plant Physiology*.