Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that plays a crucial role in cellular functions, particularly in the brain. It is highly concentrated in neural tissue and is involved in various cognitive and neurological processes.

Benefits and Uses

1. Cognitive Function and Memory: PS has been shown to improve memory and cognitive functions in elderly individuals with memory complaints. Studies indicate that supplementation with PS, particularly when combined with omega-3 fatty acids, can enhance verbal recall, learning abilities, and overall cognitive performance¹².

2. Neurotransmitter Release: PS facilitates the release of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine, and noradrenaline, which are vital for communication between neurons and for overall brain function³.

3. Stress Reduction: PS has been found to reduce the cortisol response to stress, particularly in physically active individuals, potentially improving feelings of well-being and decreasing muscle soreness⁴.

4. Neuroinflammation and Neuroprotection: PS has anti-inflammatory properties and can modulate neuroinflammatory responses, contributing to its potential therapeutic role in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases².

5. Exercise Performance: Supplementation with PS may enhance exercise capacity and performance, especially during high-intensity activities. This stems from its role in managing the neuroendocrine response to physical stress⁴.

Sources of Phosphatidylserine

• Soy-Derived PS: Extracted from soybean lecithin, this form is widely used due to safety concerns associated with bovine-derived PS. Studies suggest it is safe and well-tolerated, with potential benefits for memory and cognitive function⁵.
• Fish-Derived PS: Often combined with omega-3 fatty acids like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), it is believed to further enhance cognitive benefits due to the synergistic effects of PS and omega-3s¹.

Conclusion

Phosphatidylserine is a promising supplement for supporting cognitive health, reducing stress responses, and potentially enhancing physical performance. It is generally considered safe, with various studies highlighting its positive effects particularly among the elderly and physically active individuals.

Footnotes

1. Veronika Vakhapova, "Phosphatidylserine containing omega-3 fatty acids may improve memory abilities in non-demented elderly with memory complaints: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial", PubMed. ↩ ↩²

2. Xiaohua Ma, "Phosphatidylserine, inflammation, and central nervous system diseases", NCBI. ↩ ↩²

3. Michael Kingsley, "Effects of phosphatidylserine supplementation on exercising humans", PubMed. ↩

4. Yael Richter, "The effect of soybean-derived phosphatidylserine on cognitive performance in elderly with subjective memory complaints: a pilot study", NCBI. ↩ ↩²

5. Akito Kato-Kataoka, "Soybean-Derived Phosphatidylserine Improves Memory Function of the Elderly Japanese Subjects with Memory Complaints", NCBI. ↩