What is Phosphatidylserine（PS）
The phospholipid component of the membrane enveloping each brain cell plays a crucial role in maintaining their fluidity and permeability, facilitating efficient movement of proteins, enzymes, oxygen, and glucose across the cell boundaries. Conversely, phosphatidylcholine (PC), which predominates among brain phospholipids, is primarily located in the outer layer of cell membranes. Phosphatidylserine constitutes approximately 15% of the brain's total pool of phospholipids and resides within the inner layer of cell membranes. Both these components are indispensable for preserving optimal cognitive health by regulating membrane fluidity and governing various cellular activities. Healthy brain cell membranes exhibit malleability, fluidity, and flexibility; however, with aging comes a decline in phospholipids including phosphatidylserine. Consequently, cell membranes become rigid leading to compromised focus, concentration, memory retention as well as mood stability and learning abilities.
How does phosphatidylserine do?
Phosphatidylserine can be extracted from the residues of natural soybean or sunflower oil extraction, and it serves as an active component in cell membranes, particularly abundant in brain cells. Phosphatidylserine interacts with cellular proteins to regulate the activity of nerve receptors, enzymes, ion channels and signaling molecules. It is also involved in building mitochondria, the energy center of every brain cell, and even promotes the production of nerve growth factor (NGF).The primary function of this compound is to enhance the functionality of nerve cells, regulate the conduction of nerve impulses, and improve memory function. Due to its high lipophilicity, it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier upon absorption and effectively relaxes smooth muscle cells within blood vessels while promoting cerebral blood flow. Additionally, it can alleviate physical and mental stress in healthy young individuals.
Why do people need to ingest Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine can be found in certain foods commonly consumed, although not always in a readily available or universally appealing form. These include chicken hearts, Atlantic mackerel, soy lecithin, cabbage, egg yolks, cow brains and Atlantic herring. Hence, it is understandable that our diets may not consistently provide sufficient quantities of these valuable phospholipids. To ensure adequate levels of phosphatidylserine in the brain, the most effective approach is to supplement with phosphatidylserine derived from soybean extract or sunflower lecithin. Such supplements have been proven highly beneficial in combating age-related cognitive decline and associated disorders.
Addition of phosphatidylserine
Normal people need 100-300 mg of pure phosphatidylserine daily. In more detail, 100 mg per day is recommended for people who eat a diet rich in meat and fish, and 250-300 mg per day is recommended for vegetarians, people on low-fat or low-cholesterol diets, and the elderly. In addition, some other dietary habits can reduce the amount of phosphatidylserine in the brain. For example, a diet deficient in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the amount of phosphatidylserine in the brain by 28%, so higher levels of phosphatidylserine supplementation are also needed.
