Wizard of Vitamins

Phosphatidylserine Vitamin

What is Phosphatidylserine?

Phosphatidylserine (PS) belongs to a special category of fat-soluble substances called phospholipids, which are essential components of cell membranes. PS is found in high concentrations in the brain.

Phosphatidylserine in Diets

PS is found in only trace amounts in a typical diet. Very small amounts are present in lecithin. The body manufactures PS from phospholipid building blocks. PS research has used material derived from a bovine source. Currently, PS that is commercially available is derived from soy.

Phosphatidylserine Medicinal Treatments

Age-related cognitive decline (ARCD) Athletic performance (to enhance enurance in young active men) Alzheimer’s disease Depression Parkinson’s disease

Known Consequences of Phosphatidylserine Deficiency

PS is not an essential nutrient, and therefore dietary deficiencies do not occur. Adults age 50 and older, especially those with age-related cognitive decline, may not synthesize enough PS, and appear most likely to benefit from supplemental PS.

Phosphatidylserine Recommended Dosages

Positive effects on mental function have been achieved using 200–500 mg per day of bovine PS; most studies used 300 mg per day. Preliminary animal research shows that the soy-derived PS does have effects on brain function similar to effects from the bovine source.

Phosphatidylserine Side Effects

No significant side effects associated with PS have been reported. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with phosphatidylserine.