Could Phosphatidylserine Supplements Improve Memory in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients?

According to a Mayo Clinic report, phosphatidylserine supplements may help people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease improve their memory and other cognitive functions. Studies have found that taking the food supplement can improve behaviour and some cognitive abilities. The supplement only had an effect on people who presented mild symptoms of the disease and the improvements lasted just a few months.

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Phosphatidylserine was originally derived from the brains of cows, but following the outbreak of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in the U.K. in the ’80s and ’90s — also known as mad cow disease — the supplement is now mostly produced from either cabbage or soy derivatives. However, the plant-based supplement could also offer cognitive improvements for people with mild Alzheimer’s disease, although more research is needed.

MORE: Six future tests that could help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease earlier.

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