With the ever-increasing global population and the increased mental workload of the present generation, maintaining maximum cognitive activity has become one of the most significant health requirements.Phosphatidylserineis a vital phospholipid present in the membranes of brain cells, and its popularity in the nutraceutical market is increasing due to its possible effects of improving memory and concentration and reducing brain fatigue. In recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) are some of the authorities that have approved phosphatidylserine as a nutrient-fortified functional food ingredient. This process has opened markets in which it can be used internationally within the health products market.
Phosphatidylserineis naturally present in the phospholipids and it is an essential element of the membranes of the cells having large concentrations in the nerve cells of the brain. It was first extracted from the brains of cattle, but production is now based on plants, for safety purposes.
At the moment, soybeans are the main source of phosphatidylserine. Based on soybean oil extraction byproducts, phosphatidylserine consists of linoleic and palmitic acids as its primary fatty acids.
Phosphatidylserine is a white, solid-waxy substance, or a light-yellow powder. It does not dissolve in water, although it can be spread to give an emulsion. It is highly fat-soluble and can be absorbed into the brain, crossing the blood-brain barrier, to give its smart effect. The study found that phosphatidylserine helps the brain in different ways. It facilitates the production of neurotransmitters in the brain and especially acetylcholine, which is associated with memory. It enhances the signaling of the brain, aiding in concentration and focus.
The available research on the effects of phosphatidylserine shows that it has a positive impact on middle-aged and elderly people experiencing age-related cognitive decline. A study of people aged 50 to 75 found that their ability to remember phone numbers and recall lost objects improved significantly after taking 300 milligrams of phosphatidylserine daily for 12 weeks.
Phosphatidylserine has been shown to have advantages in younger individuals such as students. Research studies show that the daily intake of 100-200 mg of phosphatidylserine for 40 days will significantly improve the memory performance of the test individuals.
Regulatory approval and market prospects
Phosphatidylserine has been approved by regulators in various countries and regions. In October 2006, phosphatidylserine was granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status by the U.S. FDA and was permitted for use in yogurt, milk powder, bread, and other foods as a nutrient-enriched functional food.
Phosphatidylserine received approval from the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA). It also allowed manufacturers to claim on packaging that their products enhance mood and improve memory. Phosphatidylserine was included in the Catalogue of New Resource Foods by the Ministry of Health of China in 2010.
Brain health supplements are also gaining increasing popularity in the market. The necessity for brain health supplements is also rising due to the growing number of older individuals in the country and the increasing educational and employment pressures among young people.
Phosphatidylserine can be taken as capsules and in food and beverages as it is a natural substance that is safe and effective and can be used in various ways.
Phosphatidylserine has become more multifunctional in usage by the health products industry. As a staple component, it is widely used in natural food products like milk and yogurt, and functional drinks, and powdered milk alternatives beyond the more traditional delivery methods of capsules and tablets.
The research indicates that phosphatidylserine is not degraded by pasteurization such that it can be used in a variety of foods. It also works in conjunction with other brain nutrients such as DHA to maintain the integrity of the nervous system.
The brain health supplements that individuals desire are not solely intended for elderly individuals. The desire of students, office workers, and adults to maintain their mental sharpness implies that more individuals desire to use phosphatidylserine at all ages.
In the future, the research of brain science will continue to evolve, and as a result, the applications of
phosphatidylserine will become more and more. Scientists will also identify the most suitable amount of phosphatidylserine, which individuals need to consume and the period that they should consume it, depending on their age, health status, and their required objectives.
Researchers are now exploring the combined effects of phosphatidylserine (PS) and other brain health substances. They are also now exploring the way it could help in alleviating stress and improving mood. More research needs to be done on how PS maintains a stabilizing neuroendocrine system within the body.
The expanded use of phosphatidylserine in food products and health products will be caused by the effectiveness of brain health advantages of the substance and the low production prices resulting from the enhanced processes of extraction and production.
The market of brain health is expanding and that is why phosphatidylserine has assured future possibilities. There will be more scientific support to this natural substance in the future to retard the aging of the brain and enhance thinking ability and stabilize mood.