What is Phosphatidylserine (PS)?
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid, a type of fatty substance that plays a vital role in cell membrane structure and function. It is particularly concentrated in the brain, where it helps facilitate communication between neurons, supports metabolic activity, and maintains nerve cell health. While the body can produce some PS on its own, it also obtains it from dietary sources. Levels of natural PS in the body, and its effectiveness, can decrease with age, leading many to seek supplements.
The role of PS in brain and cellular function
- Enhancing Communication: PS is a key component of neural membranes, assisting in the conduction of electrical impulses and the activity of neurotransmitters responsible for learning, memory, and mood.
- Cellular Integrity: It maintains the integrity of cell membranes, which are crucial for moving nutrients into cells and pumping waste products out.
- Supporting Cognitive Health: PS has been extensively studied for its potential to support memory, attention, and cognitive function, especially in the context of age-related decline.
- Stress Management: Research suggests PS can help balance cortisol levels, a hormone that responds to stress, potentially alleviating anxiety and mood disorders.
What is Now Food?
NOW Foods is a well-regarded American natural products manufacturer founded in 1968. What started as a small health food store has grown into a major industry leader known for its commitment to quality, affordability, and extensive product testing. The brand offers a wide range of supplements, including vitamins, minerals, sports nutrition, and natural foods.
Why the NOW brand matters for PS supplements
- Quality Assurance: NOW Foods manufactures its products to high standards, conducting over 19,000 quality tests per month to ensure purity and safety.
- Transparency: The company is transparent about its manufacturing processes and ingredients, building consumer trust.
- Wide Product Range: NOW offers different types of PS supplements, including both soy-derived and soy-free versions, catering to various dietary needs.
Comparing Phosphatidylserine Supplements: NOW Foods vs. Others
To understand the appeal of NOW Foods' phosphatidylserine, it is helpful to compare it with other market options. The source of PS is a key differentiating factor. Historically, supplements were derived from cow brains, but this practice was phased out due to safety concerns like mad cow disease. Today, most PS comes from plant sources like soy or sunflowers.
| Feature | NOW Foods Phosphatidylserine | Other PS Supplements |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Soy-derived (lecithin) and soy-free (sunflower) options | Varied; can be derived from soy, cabbage, or other plant sources |
| Quality Testing | Rigorous, in-house quality testing, often exceeding regulatory requirements | Variable; depends on the brand's commitment to quality control |
| Certifications | Often Kosher, Vegan, and Non-GMO certifications on specific products | May or may not carry third-party certifications; less consistent across brands |
| Added Ingredients | Sometimes includes Choline and Inositol for added brain support | Purity varies; some may contain fillers or different combinations of nutrients |
| Target Audience | A broad audience seeking affordable, high-quality, and transparently-produced brain support | Varies by brand; some focus on specific markets (e.g., athletes, elderly) |
The benefits of taking phosphatidylserine now food
Taking phosphatidylserine from a reputable brand like NOW Foods offers several potential benefits for cognitive and mental wellness.
Supporting memory and cognitive function
As a crucial component of nerve cell membranes, PS helps improve brain functions related to memory, concentration, and learning. This is particularly important as the natural production of PS can decline with age. Studies suggest that PS supplementation can lead to improvements in memory abilities, especially for those with age-related cognitive decline.
Easing stress and promoting balanced moods
Phosphatidylserine may play a role in regulating the body's stress response by influencing cortisol levels. High cortisol can be detrimental to mental and physical health. By helping to modulate these levels, PS can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, contributing to a more balanced mood and overall sense of calm.
Potential for athletic performance and recovery
Some athletes use PS supplements to combat exercise-induced stress and potentially speed up recovery. While the evidence is mixed, some research has explored PS's ability to blunt cortisol spikes that occur after intense exercise, which can lead to muscle breakdown. However, it is important to note that studies on plant-based PS for athletic performance have not consistently shown significant effects.
Potential side effects and safety
Phosphatidylserine is generally considered safe for most people when taken at recommended dosages. However, some users may experience mild side effects, such as stomach upset or insomnia, especially with higher doses. It is always recommended to start with a lower dose to assess tolerance. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications should be cautious, as PS may enhance their effects. Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement is advisable.
How to choose the right PS supplement
When selecting a phosphatidylserine supplement, consider the following factors:
- Source: Look for supplements derived from plant sources like soy or sunflowers to avoid any potential safety risks associated with older, bovine-derived products.
- Third-Party Certification: Reputable brands, like NOW Foods, often provide third-party verification from organizations such as NSF International or U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) to ensure the product contains what it claims.
- Formulation: Decide if you prefer a standard PS supplement or one with added synergistic nutrients like choline or inositol, which NOW offers.
The NOW Foods promise
NOW Foods consistently demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality, transparently-sourced, and affordable natural products. Their rigorous testing and long-standing reputation make them a reliable choice for those looking to try phosphatidylserine for cognitive support or stress management. The availability of both soy and soy-free options further enhances their appeal to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Phosphatidylserine is a vital phospholipid with established roles in maintaining healthy brain cell membranes and enhancing cellular communication. While it is a naturally occurring compound, supplementation, particularly from a trusted brand, can offer significant benefits, especially regarding memory, cognitive function, and stress response. NOW Foods, with its strong reputation for quality and rigorous testing protocols, provides a range of reliable phosphatidylserine products derived from safe plant sources. Whether you are seeking to support memory as you age or manage daily stress, incorporating a high-quality phosphatidylserine supplement, such as those from NOW Foods, is a practical option. However, as with any supplement, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.
References
- [Cleveland Clinic, 1.3.1] "Phosphatidylserine: What It Is, Benefits, Side Effects & Uses" -
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/25129-phosphatidylserine - [NOW Foods, 1.7.2] "Phosphatidyl Serine 100 mg Veg Capsules" -
https://www.nowfoods.com/products/supplements/phosphatidyl-serine-100-mg-veg-capsules - [EBSCO, 1.5.1] "Phosphatidylserine as a therapeutic supplement | Research Starters" -
https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/health-and-medicine/phosphatidylserine-therapeutic-supplement - [NIH, 1.5.3] "Phosphatidylserine and the human brain - PubMed" -
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25933483/ - [RxList, 1.10.2] "Phosphatidylserine: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, ... - RxList" -
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/phosphatidylserine.htm
