Phosphatidylserine OCD: Can This Brain-Boosting Nutrient Help with Obsessive Thoughts?

It can be hard to live with OCD, especially when intrusive thoughts take control and daily activities become into strict rituals. A lot of people look for other ways to help their mental health in addition to established therapy. Phosphatidylserine (PS) is what we're talking about here.
Disclaimer: This content is intended solely for informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Table of Contents
- What Is Phosphatidylserine?
- OCD and the Brain: A Quick Look
- Can Phosphatidylserine Help OCD Symptoms?
- PS for Cortisol and Stress: The Link to OCD
- How to Use Phosphatidylserine Safely
- Conclusion: Is It Worth Trying?
- References and Resources
What Is Phosphatidylserine?
Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid, which is a type of fat molecule that is important for the construction of cell membranes, especially in the brain. It helps with mental tasks like memory, learning, and controlling mood. Our bodies make PS on its own, but levels go down when we become older, are stressed, or have certain mental health issues.
PS is frequently made from soy or sunflower lecithin and has been studied a lot for its effects on memory and stress. It is generally well-tolerated and passes the blood-brain barrier, which makes it a good choice for mood and cognitive support.
OCD and the Brain: A Quick Look
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with disruption in neural circuits, especially between the prefrontal cortex and the basal ganglia. These parts of the brain control how we make decisions, feel, and do things over and over. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine are also very important.
People with OCD often have higher levels of cortisol and more stress responses, which might make their obsessive behaviours or intrusive thoughts worse. The goal of treating OCD is to get these systems to work together better, usually with therapy, medication, and help with daily life.
Can Phosphatidylserine Help OCD Symptoms?
Phosphatidylserine may not directly treat OCD, but it may aid by regulating stress and making it easier to think flexibly. Some new studies imply that PS may:
- Lower cortisol, which is the major hormone that causes stress in the body
- Enhance sleep, frequently disturbed with OCD
- Help the brain's executive function and ability to adapt
There are also stories of persons with OCD or anxiety disorders feeling less mentally tired and more emotionally strong when they take PS supplements. Nonetheless, additional study is required to validate its particular benefits in OCD.
PS for Cortisol and Stress: The Link to OCD
One of the most researched advantages of PS is its capacity to mitigate cortisol surges. High cortisol levels can make memory, sleep, and emotional control worse in those who are under a lot of stress or anxiety. These are all things that can make OCD symptoms worse.
Phosphatidylserine may help you feel calmer and have better control over your thoughts by lowering cortisol levels. This could be especially helpful for persons whose OCD symptoms are worse when they are under a lot of stress or who feel mentally burned out.
How to Use Phosphatidylserine Safely
If you're thinking about using PS as a supplement to help your mental health, here are some important things to keep in mind:
- The usual dose is 100 to 300 mg per day, split up between meals.
- Best taken: With food, in the morning or early afternoon if possible
- Possible adverse effects: If taken too late in the day, it can cause mild stomach problems or trouble sleeping.
- Talk to your doctor: This is especially true if you take blood thinners, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medicines.
It won't take the place of therapy or pharmaceutical drugs, but it might work well with them.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Trying?
Phosphatidylserine may not be a miracle solution for OCD, but it could help with stress management and brain function. This nutrient may be a good addition to your wellness plan if your symptoms go worse when you're anxious or tired.
As with any supplement, start slowly, pay attention to how it affects you, and talk to your doctor to be sure it fits safely with your other treatment goals.
References and Resources
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PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE: Overview, uses, side effects, precautions, interactions, dosing and reviews. (n.d.-b). https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-992/phosphatidylserine
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). (2025, June 2). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9490-ocd-obsessive-compulsive-disorder
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Glade, M. J., & Smith, K. (2014). Phosphatidylserine and the human brain. Nutrition, 31(6), 781–786. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2014.10.014
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Benton, D., Donohoe, R., Sillance, B., & Nabb, S. (2001). The Influence of Phosphatidylserine Supplementation on Mood and Heart Rate when Faced with an Acute Stressor. Nutritional Neuroscience, 4(3), 169–178. https://doi.org/10.1080/1028415x.2001.11747360
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NIH, "Stress Hormones and Mental Health," https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5579396/