Randomised Controlled Trial

The influence of soy-derived phosphatidylserine on cognition in age-associated memory impairment

Jorissen BL, Brouns F, Van Boxtel MP, Ponds RW, Verhey FR, Jolles J, Riedel WJ - Nutritional Neuroscience (2001) - Sample size: 120

Key Finding

Phosphatidylserine (300mg daily) significantly improved verbal memory and recall in elderly adults with memory impairment.

Plain-English Summary

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of soy-derived phosphatidylserine (PS) on memory in 120 elderly adults with age-associated memory impairment. Participants received 300mg of PS or placebo daily for 12 weeks.

The PS group showed significant improvements in several memory measures compared to placebo. Improvements were most notable in verbal immediate recall and delayed recall tasks. Participants also showed better face and name recognition performance.

Benefits were particularly pronounced in individuals with more severe baseline memory impairment, suggesting PS may be most effective for those experiencing significant age-related cognitive decline. PS is a phospholipid that supports cell membrane function in neurons and may enhance neurotransmitter activity. The supplement was well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects.

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