Phosphatidylserine Extract

Also known as: PS, phosphatidylserine, soy-derived phosphatidylserine, sunflower phosphatidylserine, bovine cortex phosphatidylserine

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Brain phospholipid supplement with some evidence for memory and focus, especially in older adults.

What it does

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid — a type of fat — that naturally occurs in high concentrations in brain cell membranes. It plays a role in cell signaling, nerve communication, and...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

100-400 mg daily based on general knowledge

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid — a type of fat — that naturally occurs in high concentrations in brain cell membranes. It plays a role in cell signaling, nerve communication, and maintaining the fluidity of brain cell walls. General research suggests it may support memory, attention, and cognitive function, particularly in older adults experiencing age-related decline, with effects typically studied at 100–400 mg per day over 6–12 weeks.

What It Doesn't Do

Not a proven treatment for Alzheimer's or dementia. Won't sharpen memory overnight. No solid evidence it boosts athletic performance on its own. The FDA's qualified health claim for PS is weak — it's not an endorsement. Sunflower-derived PS hasn't been studied as thoroughly as older bovine-derived versions.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May help maintain memory and recall in older adults with age-related cognitive decline.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 100-300 mg daily

Supports attention and mental processing speed, particularly in aging populations.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 300-400 mg daily

May blunt cortisol response to physical and mental stress at higher doses.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 400-800 mg daily

Absorption & Bioavailability

Good — phosphatidylserine is a fat-soluble compound absorbed well when taken with food. It crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is why it's studied for cognitive effects.

Red Flags to Watch For

No papers were provided for this analysis — all claims here are based on general knowledge, not verified study data
Products vary widely in PS source (soy, sunflower, bovine) and purity — not all forms have equal research backing
Some products are underdosed below 100 mg, which is below the range used in most cognitive studies
The FDA's qualified health claim for PS and cognitive decline is rated as having 'very little scientific evidence' — marketing often overstates this
Bovine-derived PS (most studied) is rarely used today due to BSE concerns — newer plant-based versions have less clinical data

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Phosphatidylserine Extract do?

Brain phospholipid supplement with some evidence for memory and focus, especially in older adults.

What is the effective dose of Phosphatidylserine Extract?

100-400 mg daily based on general knowledge

Is Phosphatidylserine Extract safe?

No papers were provided for this analysis — all claims here are based on general knowledge, not verified study data

What doesn't Phosphatidylserine Extract do?

Not a proven treatment for Alzheimer's or dementia.

Research Sources

General knowledge — no papers were provided for this analysis. All assessments are conservative and based on broadly known research context, not verified study abstracts.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25