Phosphatidylserine (PS) is one of the major phospholipids found in the brain. Among other phospholipids, it is structurally responsible for making up the cell membrane and functionally responsible for triggering cell-to-cell communication, making it a crucial nutrient for optimal function of the central nervous system.
Animal research has suggested that PS supports the growth of the brain by increasing the density of nerve growth factor receptors; receptors normally found to decrease as we age. PS has also shown to positively affect various neurotransmitters in the brain, including acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine.
With these mechanisms in mind, it should come as no surprise that PS has been heavily studied for its ability to support cognition. Although PS has shown potential benefits in cases of attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD), insomnia and chronic stress, most clinical studies have focused on the management of age-associated memory impairment (AAMI). In one of the largest studies examining the role of PS supplementation in AAMI, significant improvements in behavioral and cognitive performance with 300 mg/day of PS were recorded after a period of 6 months in elderly patients aged 65-93 with moderate to severe cognitive decline.
A separate double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial found benefits in memory tests in those with AAMI after just 3 weeks of 300mg/day of PS supplementation. Specifically, improvements were seen in the treatment subjects' abilities to remember names and faces, recall telephone numbers and remember the placement location of keys and glasses, with the greatest improvements in test scores shown in those with the lowest cognitive function at baseline. It is clear that PS is imperative for brain health.
PS can be sourced from either bovine cortex, soybean or sunflower, all demonstrating the ability to readily pass through the blood-brain barrier, a trait necessary for therapeutic effects on the nervous system. Cyto-Matrix’s Phosphatidylserine provides 100mg of sunflower-derived phosphatidylserine per vegetable capsule, to allow for a hypoallergenic option and variable dosing strategies depending on your patient’s needs. 90 capsules per bottle.
