Phosphatidylserine (PS), also known as complex nervonic acid, is extracted from the residue of natural soybean oil. It is the active substance of cell membrane, especially in brain cells. Its function is mainly to improve the function of nerve cells, regulate the conduction of nerve impulses, and enhance the memory function of the brain. Because of its strong lipophilicity, it can quickly pass through the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain after absorption, so as to relieve vascular smooth muscle.
The relationship between phosphatidylserine and the brain
Phosphatidylserine is a ubiquitous phospholipid, usually located in the inner layer of the cell membrane. Phosphate glycerides in phosphorous ester compounds are one of cell membrane components and are related to a series of membrane functions. Especially in the human body’s nervous system, it is one of the important components of the cell membrane of the brain. At the same time, it plays an important role in regulating the various functions of the brain (especially the stability of the brain’s memory and emotions). For example, it can affect the fluidity and permeability of cell membranes, and can activate the metabolism and synthesis of a variety of enzymes.
Phosphatidylserine – a part of cell membranes
There are three main types of phospholipids that make up cell membranes: phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine (Ps). They form a double layer of phospholipids with the hydrophilic end on the outside and the hydrophobic end on the inside to form a cell membrane. In normal cell membranes, PS is only distributed in the inner layer of double phospholipids. But once the cell ages, this asymmetry of the cell membrane disappears immediately, and PS will go to the outer phospholipid of the membrane, thereby changing the fluidity of the cell.
The effect of brain cell membrane on human memory
Human memory will change due to the fluidity of cells in the cerebral cortex. In older people, the fluidity of brain cell membranes will gradually deteriorate, and memory will gradually decline. Memory can also be divided into long-term memory and short-term memory. Studies have found that the fluidity of brain cell membranes has decreased, and the decline in short-term memory is particularly pronounced.
Phosphatidylserine can increase the fluidity of brain cell membranes and the concentration of brain cell glucose. This also means that it can make brain cells more active, have a significant effect on improving short-term memory, and increase the performance of learning ability and academic performance. In addition, it also strengthens the resistance of cell membranes to the destructive properties of free radicals. It can reduce the probability of cell aging and degeneration resulting in poor cell fluidity.
Food sources of phosphatidylserine
In general foods, such as fish, meat, rice, noodles, beans, and green vegetables, the content of PS is extremely small. Even the highest content of lecithin, it only contains 0.5% of PS. This means that we cannot get enough PS from our daily food, which is why we need to supplement PS. The daily dose for adults is 100mg to 200mg, but children do not need to eat so much, about a quarter (25-50mg) is enough.
Phosphatidylserine main benefits
The scientists belive that phosphatidylserine (PS) is a new “smart nutrient” after choline and “brain gold” DHA. Experts believe that this natural substance can help cell walls maintain flexibility. It can also enhance the efficiency of neurotransmitters that transmit brain signals. It helps the brain to operate efficiently and stimulates the activation state of the brain. Specifically, phosphatidylserine has the following functions.
-Improve brain function, focus and memory
Improve Alzheimer’s disease. With age, phosphatidylserine and other important brain chemicals will gradually decrease. This will lead to weakening of memory and cognition. Supplementing phosphatidylserine can increase the number of brain spurs. It also increases the fluidity of brain cell membranes and promote glucose metabolism in brain cells. Thereby it makes brain cells more active. Phosphatidylserine supplements can treat dementia caused by aging and memory loss in the elderly.
-Help repair brain damage
Phosphatidylserine is one of the main components of brain nerves. It has the activity of nourishing and activating various enzymes in the brain. Thus it can delay the process of neurotransmitter reduction, help repair and renew damaged brain cells and remove harmful substances. It can restore the memory of the elderly to the level of 14 years ago. Studies have shown that after 12 weeks of consuming phosphatidylserine, a 66-year-old has the memory of a 52-year-old.
Phosphatidylserine can enhance human intelligence. Because it can quickly pass through the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain. In the brain, it relieves the smooth muscle cells of brain capillaries and increases blood supply to the brain. Therefore, in recent years, many products for stroke have used PS as a raw material.
-Relieve stress, promote the recovery of brain fatigue, and balance emotions
A number of studies have shown that phosphatidylserine can significantly reduce the level of excessive stress hormones in the body of work-stressed people. It can reduce stress, relieve brain fatigue, promote concentration, improve alertness and memory, and relieve bad emotions (such as depression).
Conclusion
As a biologically active substance, phosphatidylserine have unique physical and chemical properties and nutritional value. They have been widely used in food, health care products, medicine and feed industries worldwide. By using phosphatidylserine, people can regulate blood lipids, improve memory, protect the liver, invigorate the brain, and delay aging and other physiological functions.
