Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found in all cells. It is a major component of cell walls (membrane) in the brain. Cell membranes surround the cell, keep it intact and regulate many vital cellular functions including the storage, release and activity of many important neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) and their receptors. Phosphatidylserine is also important in cell-to-cell communication. PS stimulates the release of dopamine (a mood regulator that also control physical sensations, and movement), increases the production of acetylcholine (necessary for learning and memory), enhances brain glucose metabolism and reduces cortisol (a stress hormone) levels.
 

PS is most often used in the relief of age related memory and cognitive decline. Research has shown that dietary supplementation with phosphatidylserine may slow or reverse the decline of learning, mood, memory, concentration, or age-related cognitive impairment.

More recently, PS is being used for its ability to help reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is an important and necessary steroid hormone most commonly known as our body’s stress hormone. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands (small triangular shaped glands located on top of the kidneys) and is involved in many critically body functions including the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats from the foods you eat and in the regulation of blood sugar. Its main function is in the body’s stress response. When faced with any type of mental, emotional or physical stress, your adrenal glands release cortisol into the bloodstream. Cortisol provides you with the nutrients you need to manage the stress. If cortisol levels are elevated over a period of months or years, those high levels can have a profound negative impact on our overall health. In fact, recent research has focused on the correlation between elevated cortisol levels and weight gain, insulin resistance and the development of Type 2 Diabetes.

Cortisol is also considered a fat storage hormone and for this reason, people are supplementing with PS to help reduce cortisol levels, which will help in fat mobilization and storage reduction.