Phosphatidylserine (PS) Gains Attention for Multifaceted Health Benefits
Improve memory and cognitive function
As an important component of brain cell membranes, the effect of phosphatidylserine on cognitive function has always been the focus of research. Early studies focused on phosphatidylserine extracted from bovine cortex. A large randomized controlled trial in 1993 showed that elderly participants had improved cognitive ability and withdrawal/apathy scores after supplementing with phosphatidylserine. This study has attracted much attention due to its nearly 500 participants and up to 6 months of duration. However, due to the risk of mad cow disease (BSE), plant-derived phosphatidylserine, especially soy-derived phosphatidylserine (Soy-PS), has gradually become a safer choice. Studies have shown that soy phosphatidylserine has similar effects on improving cognitive function as bovine brain-derived phosphatidylserine.
ADHD Symptom Relief
Studies have shown that children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often have lower levels of phosphatidylserine in serum, basal ganglia, and prefrontal cortex. These brain regions are prime targets for ADHD medication, suggesting a possible link between phosphatidylserine levels and ADHD symptoms. Therefore, several clinical trials have been initiated to investigate the possible effects of phosphatidylserine supplementation on ADHD symptoms. Preliminary research found that children who took 200 mg of phosphatidylserine daily experienced significant improvements in both inattention and hyperactivity.
Reducing Stress & Regulating Cortisol
Research has shown that phosphatidylserine supplementation can reduce cortisol levels caused by both emotional stress and physical stress. A study conducted on healthy men found that taking 800 mg of bovine cortex-derived phosphatidylserine daily for 10 days significantly attenuated exercise-induced ACTH and cortisol responses. Another study showed that healthy men taking 600 mg of soy-sourced phosphatidylserine per day for 10 days had reduced peak cortisol concentrations and overall cortisol responses after moderate-intensity exercise. In addition, the new health authorities are persecuted by men with increasing destructive and criminal activities against the background of chronic stress, this complex is a combination of 400 mg of phosphate and 400 mg of phosphate-containing drugs (PASC) in HPA.
Enhancing athletic performance and recovery
Phosphatidylserine has received attention for its potential benefits to athletes. Studies have shown it can enhance athletic performance, reduce muscle damage, and improve recovery in athletes. It accelerates recovery, prevents post-exercise muscle soreness, and improves an athlete's overall health . Additionally, phosphatidylserine may improve athletes' focus and concentration, which is critical for athletic performance. Studies have shown that phosphatidylserine can reduce the elevated cortisol levels associated with physical activity, thus helping athletes achieve a more optimal hormonal balance. Some studies also suggest that phosphatidylserine may help maintain or even increase testosterone levels, which are sometimes suppressed by strenuous exercise. Higher testosterone to cortisol ratios are often thought to favour recovery and muscle growth.
Phosphatidylserine may help lower cortisol levels, thereby improving sleep quality, especially at night when cortisol levels are elevated and may disrupt sleep. A healthy cortisol rhythm is high in the morning and low at night, thus promoting sleep. Phosphatidylserine helps to normalise this rhythm, especially if it is disrupted by stress. Phosphatidylserine's effect on neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine also helps improve sleep. By supporting the health of brain cell membranes, phosphatidylserine may indirectly contribute to improved sleep regulation.