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Serinaid Phosphatidylserine

Also known as: PS, Serinaid, Phosphatidylserine

Overview

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found primarily in the brain, playing a vital role in cognitive function and cellular membrane integrity. It can be sourced from both animal tissues, particularly bovine cortex, and plant sources such as soy. PS is utilized as a dietary supplement aimed at enhancing cognitive health and memory, with moderate levels of research maturity. While some studies indicate potential cognitive benefits, particularly in older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), evidence quality varies due to methodological inconsistencies. Formulations usually favor soy-derived sources to mitigate potential contamination risks associated with animal-derived PS.

Benefits

Research suggests that Phosphatidylserine may enhance cognitive functions particularly in older adults and individuals experiencing MCI. Some randomized controlled trials have reported improvements in short-term memory and cognitive tasks when PS is combined with α-Linolenic acid. Preliminary findings hint at its potential to alleviate symptoms of inattention in children with ADHD, though this area remains less supported. While effect sizes mostly indicate modest benefits, the variability in study outcomes means that results should be interpreted with caution. The majority of available studies have been short-term (1-3 months), leaving the long-term effectiveness ambiguous.

How it works

Phosphatidylserine impacts neuronal architecture and function by influencing cell membrane properties. It modulates neurotransmitter activity—particularly acetylcholine and dopamine—thereby potentially enhancing cognitive processes. PS serves as a cofactor for enzymes that play a vital role in cellular signaling pathways. While the exact bioavailability of orally supplemented PS remains unclear, it is known to elevate PS levels within nerve cell membranes.

Side effects

Phosphatidylserine is generally regarded as safe, with a minor incidence of adverse effects typically reported. The most frequently noted side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort, which occurs in a small number of users. No significant or common adverse effects have been linked with PS, and reports of rare side effects are lacking. Caution is advised for individuals taking medications that affect brain chemistry, although specific drug interactions are not well-documented. There are no clear contraindications, yet supplementation in pregnant and lactating women should be approached with care due to limited safety data. Pregnant women may prefer soy-derived forms to minimize infection risks associated with bovine-derived products.

Dosage

The recommended minimum effective dose of Phosphatidylserine typically starts at 100 mg per day. An optimal dosage range is considered to be between 100 and 500 mg daily, depending on individual responses and specific health objectives. Although some studies have safely utilized doses as high as 800 mg per day, upper safety limits are not conclusively established. Timing for PS supplementation is not specifically outlined in research, and it is generally administered in conjunction with other supplements like omega-3 fatty acids. Bioavailability may be influenced by the formulation used, with soy-derived PS preferred over animal-derived variants to reduce contamination risks.

FAQs

Is it safe to combine PS with other supplements?

Yes, PS is often taken alongside omega-3 fatty acids and is generally considered safe.

What should I watch for when taking PS?

Gastrointestinal side effects may occur in some users; monitor your body's response.

Is timing important when taking PS?

No specific timing is recommended for PS supplementation; consistency is key.

When can I expect to see results from PS?

Cognitive improvements may be noticeable after several weeks, especially in older adults.

Does PS cure cognitive decline?

No, PS is not a cure but may support cognitive health and function.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9208377/ – This systematic review highlights preliminary evidence that Phosphatidylserine may reduce inattentiveness in children with ADHD, emphasizing the need for further research to validate these findings across diverse populations.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39317299/ – A randomized controlled trial on MCI patients demonstrated that Phosphatidylserine, when combined with α-Linolenic acid, improved short-term memory and cognitive functions over a 12-month period, though the synergistic effects complicate the isolation of PS benefits.
https://examine.com/supplements/phosphatidylserine/ – This review summarizes various studies on Phosphatidylserine's effectiveness in older adults, indicating mixed results in cognitive enhancement, primarily due to variability in methodologies and small sample sizes.