Evidence supporting the use of: Phosphatidylserine
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid component found in cell membranes, particularly in the brain. There is some scientific evidence suggesting that phosphatidylserine supplementation may have a role in modulating the body's stress response, which is relevant to anxiety disorders. Several small clinical studies and animal models indicate that phosphatidylserine supplementation can help lower cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, in response to acute stressors. For example, a study published in Stress (2004) found that supplementation reduced cortisol responses to physical and mental stress in healthy males. Another study in Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2008) reported improved mood in stressed subjects after phosphatidylserine administration.

However, while these findings are promising, they are not specific to anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder. Most research focuses on stress reduction and cognitive function rather than directly treating clinical anxiety. Larger and more rigorously designed studies are needed to establish efficacy for anxiety disorders. Current evidence suggests a potential benefit for stress-related symptoms, but the use of phosphatidylserine for anxiety disorders is not yet well-supported by high-quality clinical trials. As such, the scientific evidence is limited and rated as 2 out of 5.

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