Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid, a fat-soluble substance necessary for the composition of cell membranes. Normally, the body manufactures phosphatidylserine from other components of phospholipids. It is found in high concentrations in the brain and elsewhere in the body.
Most research concerning phosphatidylserine has examined its role in mental function and the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Placebo-controlled studies have suggested that phosphatidylserine may have a moderate effect in improving mental function in Alzheimer's, with the effects lasting up to three months after the conclusion of the study. However, phosphatidylserine is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease; at best, it appears to slow mental deterioration.
Phosphatidylserine also appears to affect the levels of certain neurotransmitters that are related to mood. Hence, it may be of benefit in the treatment of depression.
Because phosphatidylserine is manufactured naturally by the body, deficiencies caused by diet usually do not exist. Most studies of phosphatidylserine have used 300 mg or 600 mg per day, usually derived from soy.
Phosphatidylserine is manufactured naturally by the body. Dietary forms are rather uncommon. Very small amounts of phosphatidylserine are found in lecithin. Most clinical studies have used phosphatidylserine derived from bovine animals, specifically, bovine brain tissue. As a dietary supplement, phosphatidylserine is usually derived from soy. It is available in capsule, tablet and liquid forms.
Because of concerns about mad cow disease, bovine-based forms of phosphatidylserine are not available in the United States. As of this writing, no significant side-effects have been reported in people taking phosphatidylserine, nor are there any known drug interactions. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking phosphatidylserine or any other dietary supplement or herbal remedy.
References
Governor Gavin Newsom has retracted the proposed budget cuts to the Medi-Cal acupuncture program for low-income Californians for the 2024-2025 budget year. This decision marks a significant victory for health care providers and advocates who have long championed acupuncture as a vital component of comprehensive medical care.
There’s no doubt that many of your patients visit your practice because they are in pain. And there’s certainly no doubt that curcumin from turmeric (Curcuma longa) can be incredibly effective in stopping that pain, whether due to chronic conditions like arthritis or acute pain from intensive workouts. But your patients may also benefit from curcumin for other reasons.
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Fair and appropriate wages in health care are typically based on economic evaluations. A simple literature review illuminates that acupuncture is missing economic evaluations; which implies you are either underpaid or overpaid. The complexity of services provided by most American acupuncturists, which they are trained and certified to provide, must be reimbursed fairly.
