Phosphatidylserine (PS) is essential for healthy brain cell membranes and to maintain an environment required for optimal brain function.* Phosphatidylserine improves cell-to-cell communication in the brain, and thus cognitive function, at least in part by increasing cell membrane fluidity.* Other mechanisms of action include enhancing cell metabolism (such as glucose utilization) and neurotransmitter formation.* Phosphatidylserine also appears to have antioxidant activity, which would protect brain cells from free radicals.* Abundant clinical research has shown this nutrient is important in promoting optimal cognitive function, particularly in the aging brain.*
Studies show supplementing with phosphatidylserine can lower cortisol spikes in response to stress.* PS modulates cortisol by blunting the release of the hormone in the brain (ACTH) that normally signals the adrenal glands to secrete cortisol.*