Phosphatidylserine

Description

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

• Supports Cognitive Health
• Promotes Balanced Endocrine Health
• Improves Resilience to Stress
• Enhances Memory, Focus and Sense of Calm

What is Phosphatidylserine?

One of the main phospholipids in the brain, phosphatidylserine (PS) is a fat-soluble phospholipid used to support optimal endocrine and cognitive health. Along with other phospholipids, phosphatidylserine is an integral component of the basic structure of the cell membrane. All play a critical role in ensuring the proper function of numerous systems in the body, especially the central nervous system. Studies using varying amounts of phosphatidylserine highlight its benefits for cognitive health. It has also been shown to enhance memory, learning, and concentration, as well as support adrenal health. Each soft gel provides 100 mg of purified, high-concentration phosphatidylserine sourced from sunflower oil, making it easy to achieve therapeutic dosing.

Overview

Found in high concentration in the brain, phosphatidylserine plays a key role in neuronal energy production and communication as a key structural component of the cell membrane. Shown in animal experiments to have a trophic (growth supportive) effect on the brain, PS plays a key role in cell to cell communication in the brain, including the transfer of biochemical messages into the cell, triggering cellular responses. The proper functioning of these processes are especially important to the nervous system and to healthy cognitive function. PS has also been shown to support aspects of cell metabolism, such as glucose utilization and enhanced neurotransmitter formation. Furthermore, it appears to have antioxidant activity, protecting the brain from free radicals.

Since very little PS is found in food, the compound must be synthesized or supplemented to provide what is needed for optimal brain health.

Cognitive Health

Studies of oral supplements of PS have shown it to affect neuronal membranes and cell metabolism, as well as the acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitter systems.1-4 A body of research has highlighted improvements in cognitive function and memory following supplementation with PS.5-7 In one 12-week study of 30 elderly volunteers, PS supplementation significantly increased cognitive parameters, including memory recognition, memory recall, executive functions and mental flexibility. Total learning and immediate recall also improved significantly. The same study also found PS to support blood pressure already within a normal range.8 PS supplementation has also been shown to improve short-term auditory memory, inattention and impulsivity in children.9 A 30-week study found a formula of PS with omega-3s may reduce hyperactivity symptoms in children and may be especially effective in a subgroup of hyperactive-impulsive and emotionally and behaviorally challenged children.10 Clinical trials have also shown PS to significantly benefit memory, learning, vocabulary skills and concentration.11 It also supports a balanced mood among the elderly with a dosage of 300 mg a day, after 30 days.12,13

Endocrine Health and Stress Resilience

PS has also shown promise in modulating stress-related fatigue. Studies from Italy have shown that PS blunts the ACTH and cortisol response to stressors, suggesting those experiencing fatigue due to stress or overstimulation from elevated cortisol may benefit from using oral PS to reduce this response.14 A second study using the Trier Social Stress Test, (TSST) a laboratory stress test that measures the response of humans to a socially stressful public speaking situation, confirmed this finding. After three weeks of a combined blend of phoshatidic acids (100 mg PS), a statistical reduction in stress induced ACTH production, as well as serum/salivary cortisol production, was seen.15 Other studies on PS (50-800 mg) given to subjects under stress (physical, emotional, mental, etc.), found it reduced stress-induced excretion of cortisol.16,17

Administration of PS has also been studied in exercising subjects, by giving higher levels of PS (600 mg) to blunt the cortisol elevation resulting from intensive exercise. PS has also been found to reduce the cortisol response to overtraining, resulting in a reduction in muscle soreness and improved athletic performance.18-20

Directions

1 soft gel capsule three times per day or as recommended by your health care professional.

Does Not Contain

Gluten, corn, yeast, artificial colors and flavors

Cautions

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before taking this product.