Depression is a widespread mental illness that causes a number of debilitating symptoms. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, approximately 121 million people around the world are affected by depression. While traditional treatments such as psychotherapy and medication can help, researchers are increasingly interested in the uses of natural or nutritional supplements, such as phosphatidylserine, for its potential benefits on depressive symptoms. Phosphatidylserine appears to have particular benefits for older adults suffering from depression. Consult your doctor before using any dietary supplement.
About Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine, also referred to as PS, is a type of phospholipid compound, meaning that it contains phosphorous. It is derived from serline, an amino acid. All of your cells, specifically, your cell membranes, contain PS. PS helps with nutrient delivery and distribution and waste removal within your cells. Your body manufactures PS, and most people do not require additional supplementation. However, it is available as a dietary supplement for treating certain conditions and occurs naturally in foods containing high levels of protein, such as liver, kidney, eel and tuna. According to the Tufts Medical Center, some research has shown that PS can help alleviate cognitive impairments and depression, especially in the elderly.
Depression in the Elderly
While anyone can experience depression, the elderly are particularly vulnerable to this often debilitating mental illness. According to Help Guide, a nonprofit professional website dedicated to informing the public about health issues, senior citizens face unique challenges and changes, such as the death of a spouse or dealing with medical problems, that may exacerbate their chances of depression. Symptoms of depression in seniors can include social isolation, feelings of pervasive guilt or hopelessness, an impaired ability to function in everyday life and a preoccupation with death. While conventional treatments, such as medication, psychotherapy or psychosocial interventions, are usually effective at treating the symptoms, supplementation with phosphatidylserine can also provide benefits.
Clinical Evidence
A few clinical studies have examined the effects of phosphatidylserine on depression in the elderly. One study, published in the March 1990 issue of the peer-reviewed international psychiatric journal "Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica," showed a significant, consistent improvement in depressive symptoms, memory and behavior among study participants suffering from depressive disorders. Another study, published in 1994 in "Depression," a peer-reviewed journal that focuses on mood and anxiety disorders, showed that phosphatidylserine supplementation provided a significant alleviation of depressive symptoms in elderly study participants suffering from major depression.
Considerations
While phosphatidylserine may help symptoms of depression, you should never use dietary supplements to self-treat your condition. If you think you are depressed, consult your doctor to obtain a professional diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options. According to Tufts Medical Center, phosphatidylserine appears to be safe when used at recommended dosages, and side effects are rare. However, they explain that "the maximum level of safe dosages for young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease have not been established." Phosphatidylserine may interact with blood-thinning medications, ginkgo, garlic and vitamin E supplements. Consult your doctor before using phosphatidylserine.
References
- World Health Organization: Depression
- Tufts Medical Center: Phosphatidylserine
- Help Guide: Depression in Older Adults and the Elderly
- "Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica"; Effects of Phosphatidylserine Therapy in Geriatric Patients with Depressive Disorders; N. Maggioni, et al; March 1990
- "Depression"; Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal Function in Elderly, Normal and Depressed Patients: Effects of Phosphatidylserine Therapy; F. Brambilla, et al; 1994
