Phosphatidylserine extracted from sunflower

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid playing a structural role in the composition of cell membranes . Present in very large quantities in the brain (at the level of neuron membranes), it has been the subject of several studies in the treatment of memory disorders linked to aging. 

The body is able to synthesize it, but this synthesis is complex and requires a certain energy expenditure. In the event of illness or aging, the body may have difficulty making this effort. This is why an external contribution through food can be interesting.

During the 1970s and 1980s, phosphatidylserine was tested in elderly people in many European countries including France. It was administered to treat memory disorders linked to aging . It was also used to increase the performance of athletes.

These studies, carried out in the 1970s, showed some effectiveness of phosphatidylserine in the treatment of memory disorders , but also depression in the elderly. These effects were transient, lasting about six months.

In seniors, lower levels of phosphatidylserine in the brain are associated with worsening cognitive functions and memory, as well as depression.

Structural abnormalities of neuron cell membranes constitute a hypothesis for age-related memory disorders. These changes in the lipid composition of the brain would hinder the circulation of neurotransmitters, intermediates essential for normal brain functioning.