Healthy Tuesday Nutrient of the Week: Phosphatidylserine

The Urban Institute states in the publication The US Population is Aging that the number of Americans age 65 years and older will more than double over the next 40 years. They predict by 2040, 1 out of every 5 Americans will be 65 years or older, up from 1 out of 8 in 2000. Those individuals comprise the generations known as the Baby Boomers, born 1946-1964 and Generation X, born 1965 and 1980.

The expansion of the senior population will also present expanding problems associated with that age group. Dementia, a disorder of declining brain acuity, is one of those problems. It is characterized by progressive memory loss, mental fog, inability to think or express oneself clearly, impaired judgment & decision-making, and the diminishing ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL's); It impacts everything from personal grooming, toileting, and cooking to handling finances and managing the household...loss of independence. Dementia is a general category of several brain or cognitive disorders. Alzheimer's disease is the most common. It progresses as multiple stages of declining brain function until body systems shutdown and ultimately death occurs.

Due to the growing senior population, traditional and alternative fields of medicine are conducting extensive research on ways to conquer dementia. Studies addressing the nutritional aspect of treatments are revealing the substance known as Phosphatidylserine (faa * sfuh * ti * dil * sr * een) as beneficial. According to WebMD, May 2021, it is a fatty substance classified as a phospholipid that surrounds and protects the brain cells. It keeps memory and thought processes sharp by facilitating the transport of messages between the brain cells. As we get older, phosphatidylserine decreases. Although found abundantly in the brain and throughout the nervous system, the body produces a very small amount. Most of it must come from the foods we eat or supplements. Foods rich in phosphatidylserine include soybeans, egg yolks, and organ meats, such as liver.

Supplements are available in powder or capsule form. It is often included in mixtures designed to improve cognitive function. A study found that when phosphatidylserine is taken with the super nutrients omega-3 fatty acids the benefits are enhanced significantly. Omega-3 fatty acids are scientifically proven as excellent for the brain, eyes, heart, nerves, and skin. WebMD recommends taking no more than 600 milligrams (mg) of phosphatidylserine per day at 10 day intervals. Note, this is just a recommendation. Effective dosages for specific conditions have not yet been established. The Roman website in 2021 discusses how a study of young adults taking 300 mg per day reported less stress and overall improvement in mood. Another study showed the reduction of the stress hormone cortisol in patients that took 400 mg daily for 3 weeks. A reduction of the hormone ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) that stimulates the release of cortisol was also observed. The patients reported decreased feelings of distress.

Preliminary studies do show that supplements are generally safe according to WebMD. However, taking over 300 mg per day might cause mild stomach upset and insomnia in some individuals. Initially, the supplements were made from animal sources, specifically from the brains of cows. What Are the Best Vitamins for Dementia Patients? 11 Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs to Improve Well-Being by Angela Stringfellow, May 2018 on the Seniorlink blog says the animal source of the nutrient is more effective. Unfortunately, the worldwide threat of mad cow disease redirected the harvesting of phosphatidylserine to plant sources, mostly soy and cabbage.

Scientific research has found evidence that phosphatidylserine significantly boosts brain function, memory, and language skills during the earlier stages of dementia. WebMD points out studies suggest phosphatidylserine can boosts brain function, but results are not conclusive. Studies also suggest it can be beneficial in treating multiple sclerosis and muscle injury from athletics. Conditions that show promising, but not conclusive responses to the featured supplement are ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and depression. Aleksa Ristic, MS, 7 Phosphatidylserine Benefits + Dosage & Side Effects, July 2020 reports phosphatidylserine is depleted in those with Parkinson's disease which can interfere with sleep. In animal studies, normal sleep patterns were restored when provided with the supplements. Ristic also explains that the fatty substance aids in the formation of bone from minerals in the body. However, there is only pre-clinical research on the impact of phosphatidylserine and the effects have not been confirmed in humans.

There are certain medications that are impacted by the supplements, such as blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications for pain, and preparations that enhance athletic performance. WebMD warns against taking the featured supplement along with medications for glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease due to possibly worsening the side effects. Always consult a physician prior to starting a nutritional supplement, particularly if taking medications.

Although the effectiveness of phosphatidylserine is not confirmed, there is scientific evidence that supports it as a hopeful candidate in the fight against dementia and other neurological disorders. You do not have to be a senior adult to enjoy the rewards of a boost to your brain and nervous system. It is worth checking it out to aid the following: