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Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid found in cell membranes, especially in the brain. Supplements are usually made from soy or sunflower lecithin.

Also listed as PS, Phosphatidyl Serine

Stress & MoodCognition

What it is studied for

The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.

StressStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
Chronic StressStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
Acute StressStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
Mood SupportStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
Cortisol stressStress & MoodModerateBNo linked study
Brain FogCognitionModerateBNo linked study
All 11 rated effectsGrouped by health goal, with the publications behind each rating

Why is it sold for the brain?

Phosphatidylserine, or PS, helps form cell membranes and participates in cell signaling. Its biological role has encouraged cognitive research, although it remains unclear whether supplements reliably increase PS levels in the human brain. 1

Why people take it

Cognition22.6%
Stress & Mood16.6%
Energy16.1%
Essential Health13.3%
Longevity11.2%
Immune Support4.8%

SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.

Questions people ask

Does PS prevent dementia?

The cited memory trials do not establish prevention of dementia. 2 3

Does a cortisol change prove stress relief?

No. The combination trial changed hormone responses in a subgroup without a significant improvement in psychological stress responses. 4

Are all PS products equivalent?

No. Sources and fatty-acid composition vary, and Health Canada’s assessment applies specifically to soy PS. 1 5

Sources

  1. Phosphatidylserine Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, 2023