Phosphatidylserine, or PS, is a naturally occurring, phospholipid nutrient. PS is essential to the functioning of all the cells of the body, but is most concentrated in the brain. Its relative abundance in this organ reflects its proven involvement in an assortment of nerve cell functions, including nerve transmitter release and synaptic activity. Clinical studies have suggested that PS can support brain functions that tend to decline with age. Until recently, PS was only available from animal sources (brain), and occurred in commercial lecithins only in trace amounts; however, a plant source for PS has now been developed.
Phosphatidyl Serine is a member of a class of chemical compounds known as phospholipids. PS is an essential component in all our cells; specifically, it is a major component of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is a kind of “skin” that surrounds living cells. Besides keeping cells intact, this membrane performs vital functions such as moving nutrients into cells and pumping waste products out of them. PS plays an important role in many of these functions.
Good evidence suggests that PS can help declining mental function and depression in the elderly, and it is widely used for this purpose in Italy, Scandinavia, and other parts of Europe. PS has also been marketed as a “brain booster” for people of all ages, said to sharpen memory and increase thinking ability. However, the evidence to support this use is incomplete and inconsistent.
Phosphatidyl Serineis most notably found in the cell membrane of neurons, comprising about 7 to 10 percent of its lipid content. The average daily phosphatidylserine intake from the diet in western countries is estimated to be about 130 mg a day. The total amount of phosphatidylserine in the body is about 60 grams, 30 grams of which is in the brain.
Although lecithin (phosphatidylcholine) has been available as a supplement for many decades, phosphatidylserine became available to the North American market in the mid 1990s. In the past phosphatidylserine was obtained from the brain of cows. In fact, if you read some of the research studies published with phosphatidylserine, it will identify this nutrient as BC- phosphatidylserine. The BC stands for bovine cortex, or cow brain. The reason BC- phosphatidylserine is not sold is because of the fear of viruses or infectious agents being inadvertently introduced in the phosphatidylserine product when extracted from the brains of cows. The phosphatidylserine supplements currently available over the counter are derived from soy.
Natural disease free Phosphatidyl Serine is not available in capsule for at your local or internet health food store. Look for name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Phosphatidylserine is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.
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