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Phosphatidylserine Concentrate

Also known as: Phosphatidylserine, PS

Overview

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found abundantly in the brain and plays a critical role in the structure and function of cell membranes. It is naturally sourced from foods such as soybeans, egg yolks, and certain meats. As a dietary supplement, phosphatidylserine is often used to support brain health, particularly in improving cognitive function and managing symptoms associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other psychiatric challenges. While the body synthesizes some phosphatidylserine from essential fatty acids, dietary supplementation is believed to enhance brain levels and contribute positively to cognitive functioning. The evidence supporting its efficacy varies, with some benefits backed by systematic reviews, although further high-quality research is needed to firmly establish all of its claimed effects.

Benefits

Research shows that phosphatidylserine supplementation may significantly reduce inattention symptoms in children with ADHD, with a pooled effect size of 0.36 supported by a systematic review. Improvements were noted in short-term auditory memory as well. Additionally, in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), phosphatidylserine supplementation of 31.5 mg/day has demonstrated improvements in cognitive function, particularly in memory tasks. While some evidence suggests potential benefits for reducing symptoms of depression in the elderly, the overall quality of studies is low, requiring cautious interpretation. This supplement seems to be especially beneficial in pediatric populations for attention-related issues and in older adults with MCI.

How it works

Phosphatidylserine enhances cell membrane integrity and fluidity, crucial for effective neurotransmission. It interacts with neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, GABA, and serotonin, contributing to improved cognitive function. This phospholipid influences cellular signaling pathways involved in memory and learning processes. Through these mechanisms, phosphatidylserine may support optimal neuronal activity and facilitate neuroprotective effects, which can be particularly beneficial in the aging brain.

Side effects

Phosphatidylserine is generally considered safe and well-tolerated with no common side effects reported at typical dosages. There are no known rare or uncommon side effects, making it appealing as a supplement. While there is limited data regarding drug interactions, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider if other medications are used. Additionally, caution is recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited studies in these groups. Overall, the safety profile of phosphatidylserine is favorable, but careful use is always prudent.

Dosage

The minimum effective dosage of phosphatidylserine is approximately 200 mg/day, especially for ADHD symptoms in children and for cognitive support in MCI patients. Optimal dosages can range from 200 to 300 mg/day for ADHD, while MCI patients have benefited from about 31.5 mg/day as part of a combination supplement. Some studies have effectively used dosages up to 600 mg/day with no significant adverse effects reported. It is commonly recommended to take supplements with meals to enhance absorption, although specific absorption factors are not extensively documented.

FAQs

Is phosphatidylserine safe?

Yes, phosphatidylserine is generally recognized as safe and well-tolerated, though it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting.

When should I take phosphatidylserine?

While there are no specific timing recommendations, taking phosphatidylserine with meals may improve its absorption.

What benefits can I expect?

You may see improvements in attention, especially in ADHD symptoms, and enhancements in cognitive functions such as memory.

Can phosphatidylserine cure conditions like ADHD?

Phosphatidylserine is not a cure but may be a helpful adjunctive treatment for ADHD and cognitive impairments.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33539192/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that phosphatidylserine supplementation significantly reduces ADHD symptoms in children, with an effect size of 0.36.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39317299/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial shows improvement in cognitive functions in MCI patients over 12 months with phosphatidylserine supplementation.
https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/14/10/1293 – The review indicates that while phosphatidylserine could benefit depressive symptoms in elderly patients, the studies are methodologically weak, resulting in low-quality evidence.