Evidence supporting the use of: DHA-conjugated phosphatidylserine
For the health condition: Dementia

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Synopsis

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

DHA-conjugated phosphatidylserine (PS-DHA) is used as a dietary supplement with the aim of supporting cognitive function and treating dementia. The rationale for its use is primarily based on scientific hypotheses and some early clinical data, rather than long-standing traditional use. Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid component of cell membranes, especially abundant in neurons, and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain health. The combination is theorized to enhance neuronal membrane fluidity and function, potentially benefitting cognitive processes.

Small clinical trials and animal studies have shown that PS or PS-DHA supplementation may improve certain cognitive parameters in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia. For example, a few randomized controlled trials have reported modest improvements in memory, attention, or other cognitive measures with PS supplementation, but results are inconsistent. The evidence for DHA-conjugated PS, specifically, is limited, with most studies being small, short-term, and sometimes industry-sponsored. A 2010 double-blind trial (Schneider et al.) found no significant improvement in Alzheimer's disease patients after 24 weeks of PS-DHA supplementation. Meta-analyses also conclude that while PS (from both animal and plant sources) is generally safe, the evidence for clinically meaningful benefit in dementia is weak or inconclusive.

In summary, the use of DHA-conjugated phosphatidylserine for dementia is grounded in plausible scientific mechanisms and limited clinical data, but robust, high-quality evidence supporting its efficacy is lacking. Thus, the evidence rating for its use in dementia is low (2/5).

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