Phosphatidylserine is a chemical that is important for many functions in the human body, especially in the brain. Small amounts are found in most foods.Phosphatidylserine is part of the cell structure in the body. The body can make phosphatidylserine, but most of what it needs comes from foods. It can also be taken as a supplement. These supplements were once made from cow brain. Now they are commonly made from cabbage or soy.Phosphatidylserine is used for Alzheimer disease and normal age-related decline in memory and thinking skills. It is also used for athletic performance, ADHD, and many other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. What is Phosphatidylserine?
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is an acidic phospholipid that naturally occurs in the neuronal membrane of the brain. Phosphatidylserine powder is a common dietary supplement that plays an important role in brain function. It is often referred to as the "smart nutrient" and is considered the next important nutrient after choline and DHA, which is also known as "brain gold". PS makes up 17.7% of the brain's phospholipids, making it a crucial component of cell membranes.
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that is naturally present in cell membranes, particularly in the brain. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including cell signaling, neurotransmitter release, and membrane fluidity. Phosphatidylserine can be derived from both plant and animal sources and is available in powder form as a dietary supplement.
Phosphatidylserine powder has gained attention in the health and wellness industry due to its potential cognitive and mental health benefits.
What is phosphatidylserine good for?
You might not have heard of phosphatidylserine, but this unsung hero is found in every cell of your body. It plays a crucial role in keeping your brain healthy and your memory sharp. Phosphatidylserine is a special type of fat called a phospholipid. As such, it is an important building block for the outer barrier of cells, or cell membranes, giving them structure and flexibility. These protective barriers surround each cell in our body, allowing essential nutrients in while keeping harmful substances out.
Phosphatidylserine is especially important in the brain. It not only helps brain cells maintain their structure, but it also supports their function, helping cells communicate with each other. This is essential for thinking, memory and overall brain health.
In the body, phosphatidylserine benefits brain health in several ways:
1. Neuron helpers:
Phosphatidylserine helps build and maintain the cells in your brain and nerves (neurons) that are essential for sending and receiving messages. It also helps neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in our brain, to do their job, allowing them to communicate more effectively.
1. Supports cognitive function:
Phosphatidylserine helps to support memory and learning, boost your focus and concentration, sharpen your memory and encourage overall cognition.
1. Protects against the effects of aging:
Phosphatidylserine levels naturally decrease as we get older. Food and nutritional supplements may help with this and help fight age-related cognitive decline, supporting brain health in older adults.
1. Supports a healthy inflammatory response:
Phosphatidylserine helps inhibit inflammation to support brain and nervous system health.
Why do people take phosphatidylserine?
Phosphatidylserine is taken to try to prevent memory loss and mental decline that may occur as you get older.
Several studies suggest that it may boost your brain power. People who took the supplement scored higher on short-term memory, mood, and concentration tests. For example, they could better recall names and objects. Much more research is needed to confirm these results.
Scientists have used phosphatidylserine in studies to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Again, there is not enough evidence that phosphatidylserine is of any help in treating this condition.
Phosphatidylserine has been suggested in the treatment of the following conditions, as well:
· Multiple sclerosis
· Muscle soreness and stress in athletes who overtrain
What are the risks of taking phosphatidylserine?
Many people can take the soy-derived supplement without any side effects. Research is still preliminary but it is likely safe up to 600 milligrams a day for no more than 10 days. Side effects are more common at doses of 300 milligrams and above. They may include:
· Gas
· Stomach upset
· Trouble sleeping
However, optimal doses of phosphatidylserine have not been established for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. This makes it very hard to establish a standard dose.
Phosphatidylserine can affect how certain medicines work in your body. Talk to your doctor before taking this supplement especially if you also take:
· Any type of blood thinner or have any blood-clotting problems
· Anti-inflammatory medicines used for arthritis, headaches, or pain
· Performance-enhancing drugs or supplements used to increase athletic performance or stamina
How do I get more phosphatidylserine?
Your body already produces phosphatidylserine, and we get it from our diet as well. Some common food sources are soybeans, white beans, fatty fish (like tuna and mackerel), eggs, and organ meat (like chicken and beef liver).
A convenient way to enjoy the effects of phosphatidylserine is by taking a nutritional supplement. Phosphatidylserine supplements are typically made from plant sources such as soybean lecithin and sunflower lecithin. They may contain isolated phosphatidylserine, or they may be combined with other compounds that are beneficial for brain health, such as blueberry extract and ashwagandha.
Conclusion
Phosphatidylserine is naturally occurring in the brain but our stressful day to day lives, combined with natural aging can increase our need for it. Phosphatidylserine supplements can benefit the brain in a number of ways and scientific studies have shown its effectiveness in improving memory, concentration and learning, leading to a happier, healthier life and brain.
SOURCES:
Kato-Kataoka A, et al. "Soybean-derived phosphatidylserine improves memory function of the elderly Japanese subjects with memory complaints." J Clin Biochem Nutr. November 2010.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21103034/ Northey JM, et al. "Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults older than 50: a systematic review with meta-analysis." Br J Sports Med. February 2018.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28438770/