What Is Phosphatidylserine Good For?

Phosphatidylserine, or PS, is a component of phospholipids, which are a class of naturally occurring fatty acids. PS is considered a non-essential nutrient because your body has the ability to synthesize it on its own. However, PS can also be obtained through your diet and is found in some nutritional supplements marketed for its potential health benefits. As a nutritional supplement, PS is not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, your should talk to your doctor before using a supplement containing PS.

Alzheimer's Disease

According to Dr. Glenn Smith, a neuropsychologist at the Mayo Clinic, PS supplementation may have some applications for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a debilitating neurological degenerative disorder that causes cellular death in your brain, affecting memory, cognition, and eventually, control of essential bodily functions such as heart beat and nerve impulses. Although PS may improve cognitive abilities and behaviors in Alzheimer's patients, these effects may only last several months and may not be practical for long-term treatment of the disease.

Muscle Recovery

According to a study published in the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition," phospholipids, like PS, may improve sports performance and muscle recovery following intense exercise. In this particular study, PS increased the exercise capacity of participants during both high-intensity cycling and running, suggesting that PS may have a performance enhancing effect during exercise. PS was also found to reduce the perception of muscle soreness following exercise due to its stimulatory effect on adrenal hormones, such as cortisol.

Depression

PS may have a stimulating effect on brain hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate your mood. The neurotransmitter dopamine, may be released in higher amounts as a result of an increase in dietary phospholipids, such as PS. Dopamine regulates your emotions and can increase positive feelings and thoughts. Low levels of dopamine are typically associated with anxiety and depression. Consult with your physician before using PS as a treatment for depression or other mental disorders.

ADHD

According to Life Extension Magazine, PS has shown promise in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactive disorder, or ADHD. ADHD is a behavioral disorder that begins in adolescence and can continue through adulthood. PS may improve brain circulation, which can reduce some of the most common symptoms associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and nervousness. PS may be used in addition to other medical and psychological treatments for ADHD under the supervision of a health care professional.