Brain & Stress

Phosphatidylserine is the most abundant phospholipid in the human brain and is made by the body in small amounts. This important phospholipid supports neuronal cell integrity by providing the building blocks needed for cell membrane structure and function.^† Cell membranes not only act as a barrier between the inside and outside of a cell, but also play an important role in cellular communication and normal cellular responses. Phosphatidylserine has also been documented to increase the availability of choline for synthesis of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning. It may also help enhance cognitive function by maintaining cholinergic activity in the brain.^†

^{The brain makes up only 2% of a person’s body weight, yet it consumes roughly 20% of the body’s energy when at rest. Many nutrients have been shown to support optimal neurologic and cognitive function. In addition to the well-known omega-3 fatty acid DHA, other nutrients have demonstrated efficacy in supporting cognitive function.} 

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is an endogenous phospholipid. Although it is less abundant in the body than other phospholipids (i.e., phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine), it still comprises 2–10% of the body’s total phospholipids, with critical functions in several biological areas, such as apoptosis (programmed cell death), blood clotting, and cell-to-cell communication.¹ The PS molecule consists of a glycerol-phosphate backbone, the alpha-amino acid serine, and two fatty acids. As with other phospholipids, PS is a critical component in the structure of membranes, particularly neurons.²

In the body, phospholipids form a variety of structures owing to their amphipathic nature, i.e., having both a hydrophobic  (“water-fearing”) non-polar tail and hydrophilic (“water-loving’) polar head. They can move within the fluid mosaic of cell membranes, which supports cellular communication, selective passage of macromolecules, and other important cellular functions. Phosphatidylserine is the most abundant negatively charged phospholipid in eukaryotic cell membranes.³ As the major acidic phospholipid in the brain, PS can traverse the blood-brain barrier after oral administration.⁴ In animal studies, it has been shown to influence several neurochemical systems, neuronal membranes, cell metabolism, and several neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine.^†5-7  

Several clinical trials have shown that PS supplementation supports cognitive function.^†

Several clinical trials have shown that PS supplementation supports cognitive function.^† In one randomized, controlled clinical trial, 36 children, aged 4 to 14 years, who were experiencing attention-related issues were given 200 mg/d of PS or placebo for two months.⁸ PS supplementation resulted in significant improvements in attention, impulsive movement, and short-term auditory memory as compared with placebo. PS was well-tolerated and showed no adverse effects. 

Phosphatidylserine has further been shown to support healthy endocrine and adrenal responses to mental stress.^†  In a double-blind study, PS (400 mg, 600 mg, or 800 mg/d) was administered to healthy women and men 20 to 45 years old.⁹ In the groups receiving 400 mg/d of PS only, researchers observed a pronounced blunting of both serum ACTH and cortisol, and salivary cortisol responses to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). There was also a positive effect on emotional responses to the TSST at 400 mg/d. While the placebo group showed the expected increase in distress after the test, the group treated with 400 mg PS showed a decrease. The effect was not seen with larger doses. These results suggest that PS may dampen hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stress responses.^† 

Phosphatidylserine also supports cognitive function in aging individuals.^† In a clinical trial, 70 elderly subjects with cognition complaints were randomly allocated to four groups: 17 patients received only social support, 18 patients received cognitive training twice a week, 17 patients received cognitive training combined with pyritinol 2 x 600 mg/d, and 18 patients received cognitive training combined with phosphatidylserine (200 mg BID). Researchers concluded that PS supplementation combined with cognitive training led to transient improvement of cognitive and memory function, as well as improved electrophysiological brain function.^†10 

*Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant made by the body. It is found in every cell, where it helps turn glucose into energy. Antioxidants attack "free radicals," waste products created when the body turns food into energy.

Clinical Applications

Clinical Applications

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for human physiology, serving as a cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions. The 2013 NHANES found that 48% of the United States population consumed less than the recommended daily allowance for magnesium. Additionally, magnesium status can be negatively impacted by aging, certain health conditions, medications, exercise and diet choices.

A sufficient level of magnesium is essential for the health and function of the brain. Some of its most important functions are protecting the integrity of the blood brain barrier (BBB), serving as a cofactor for neurotransmitter synthesis, and modulating receptors. The transportation of magnesium into the brain is normally a restricted process due to the tight regulation of magnesium in blood.

In 2010, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology published their novel discovery of magnesium L-threonate, the only magnesium complex shown to specifically increase magnesium levels within the brain. Intraneuronal magnesium has been scientifically demonstrated to support neuroplasticity and mental focus, and improve memory in the aging brain. It promotes quality of life by supporting a balanced sleep-wake cycle and mood. Mag Threonate can also help alleviate occasional nervousness and stress.

Sleep Quality

Poor sleep affects 62% of adults worldwide. Insufficient magnesium intake and poor sleep have been correlated in several studies. Some mechanisms to explain the connection of poor sleep with inadequate magnesium are the ability of magnesium to bind gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, attenuation of the stress response or its role as a cofactor in melatonin synthesis.

Mental-Emotional Health

A 2023 survey reports that 49% of adults in the United States report frequent stress. Symptoms of low mood and nervousness can occur independently of stress but are often experienced at the same time. In the brain, magnesium supports mood and emotional health by acting as a cofactor for the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin, inhibiting the release of excitatory glutamate and binding calming GABA receptors.

Memory and Concentration

Memory and mental focus are common patient concerns. In an animal model, magnesium L-threonate was found to increase the synaptic density and function of neurons in the brain. A decline in neuronal synapses, their function and consequent atrophy of the brain are associated with impaired cognition, a process that increases with age. In a study of older adults with memory concerns, those that received 1.5 to 2 g of magnesium L-threonate daily demonstrated improvement in executive function, working (short-term) memory and episodic memory.

Suggested Use:

2 capsules per day or as recommended by your health care professional.

*Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Epi- Omega-3 TG  provides 820 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per soft gel as natural triglycerides, the preferred form with superior absorption. Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols) and rosemary extract are used to ensure maximum purity and freshness.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS