Orthomolecular - Phosphatidylserine Flashcards
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is the most abundant fat-soluble phospholipid in the human brain.
* It is important in neuronal membrane functions such as maintenance of the cell’s internal environment, secretory vesicle release, cell-to-cell communication, and cell growth regulation.
* Although the body is able to synthesise phosphatidylserine, it requires substantial energy expenditure.
* Food sources: White beans, whole grain barley, carrots, mackerel, herring, organ meats.
See diagram in notes
Alzheimer’s disease
Therapeutic uses:
* Improves neuronal membrane functioning.
* Increases acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine.
* Has been found to preserve glucose metabolism during Alzheimer’s disease, and also reduce acetylcholinesterase activity and hippocampal inflammation.
* Increases cognitive function (including non-Alzheimer’s related cognitive decline) and memory.
* More effective in patients with less severe symptoms.
* Dosage: 300 mg daily or 100 mg three times a day.
Hippocampus = part of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s
Depression
Therapeutic uses:
* Improves mood through its effects on cortisol regulation.
* Dosage: 100 mg three times a day.
* More effective when combined with fish oil.
ADHD
Therapeutic uses:
* Promotes attention and reduce symptoms of ADHD, and increases short-term memory.
* Dosage: 200 mg daily.
Stress and insomnia
Therapeutic uses:
* PS dampens the effects of prolonged cortisol secretion on brain function —allowing for better quality sleep and decreased anxiety.
* Dosage: 400 mg before bed for insomnia.
* Dosage: 200 mg daily for stress.
Supplementation:
- Safety: Generally recognised as safe. Has been safely used in studies for up to six months.
- Interactions: Possible additive effects when combined with cholinergic drugs which also increase acetylcholine.
- May decrease effectiveness of anticholinergic drugs.
See diagram in notes
