Phosphatidyl serine

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Phosphatidylserine (often spelled as phosphatidylserine) is an essential chemical compound that is classified as a phospholipid; it is a critical component of the body's cell membrane, which surrounds each living cell. Phosphatidyl serine has been widely used for depression and declining mental functioning in the elderly throughout Europe, and it is also available as a supplement for people of all ages as a way to boost brain power.

What is Phosphatidyl serine?

Originally derived from the brain tissue of cows, Phosphatidyl serine is currently obtained from soybeans and plant sources. According to studies, the Phosphatidyl serine is very close in structure to that which was obtained from cows, but without the risk of viruses that brain cells in animals may contain, such as Mad Cow disease.

While the human body makes a small amount of Phosphatidyl serine, much of its requirement comes from dietary sources. Foods containing Phosphatidyl serine include white beans, muscle meats, and organ meats, such as liver and kidneys.

Phosphatidyl serine benefits

Phosphatidyl serine is used as a supplement to reduce the risk of dementia and other cognitive dysfunction in the elderly. It also has other uses, which include:

  • Reducing the effects of age-related loss of mental acuity;
  • Treating the symptoms and causes of Alzheimer's disease;
  • Reducing the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children;
  • Increasing acetylcholine levels;
  • In sports and athletics, speeding recovery, building muscle more efficiently, and preventing muscle soreness;
  • Reducing mental stress; and
  • Enhancing moods.

Phosphatidyl serine side effects

When used at dosages recommended by health professionals, Phosphatidyl serine is safe and almost no side effects have been reported. In very rare instances, a few users have experienced mild gastrointestinal distress.

Maximum safe dosages of Phosphatidyl serine for pregnant or nursing mothers, children, and people with liver or kidney disease have not been established, so it is not recommended for these groups. In addition, patients using blood-thinning medication should not take Phosphatidyl serine, as the combination could prevent the normal clotting of blood. Phosphatidyl serine should be used in caution with other supplements that thin the blood, including Vitamin E, garlic, and ginkgo.

How does Phosphatidyl serine help brain function?

Phosphatidyl serine helps to maintain the integrity and functioning of the cell structure, with special emphasis on brain cells. It is a substance used to support the cell membrane which surrounds and contains each living cell. The cell membrane performs a number of important functions, including keeping the contents of the cell intact, moving vital nutrients into the cell, and moving waste products out of the cell. According to studies and ongoing medical research, Phosphatidyl serine is especially helpful in the case of brain cells, as it contributes to reversing the mental decline in patients with age-related neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and dementia. In addition, Phosphatidyl serine may increase cognitive functioning and enhance the memory in healthy brains.

For information about which brain supplements contain Phosphatidyl serine, read our reviews!