The Role of Phosphatidylserine in Regulating Cortisol Levels

by Vorst Canada June 13, 2023

Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.

Table of Contents:

Introduction
Overview of Cortisol and its Effects
Cortisol and Stress Response
Phosphatidylserine: An Overview
Mechanisms of Action
Benefits of Phosphatidylserine for Cortisol Regulation
Safety and Potential Side Effects
Conclusion

Cortisol, commonly known as the "stress hormone," is a pivotal component in the human body's stress response and various physiological processes. Dysregulation of cortisol levels may result in adverse health outcomes. The phospholipid known as phosphatidylserine, which is present in cellular membranes, has been the subject of research regarding its capacity to regulate cortisol levels and enhance general health.

Overview of Cortisol and its Effects

Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is synthesized and secreted by the adrenal glands in reaction to stress. The entity in question plays a crucial role in the regulation of various physiological processes within the human body, such as metabolic activities, immune system responses, and maintenance of blood pressure levels. Although cortisol plays a crucial role in our ability to survive and cope with stress, prolonged or imbalanced cortisol secretion can have adverse impacts on our well-being.

The regulation of cortisol holds significant importance

The regulation of cortisol is of utmost importance in maintaining homeostasis within the human body. Excessive levels of cortisol have been associated with the development of various medical conditions, including Cushing's syndrome, which is typified by symptoms such as weight gain, hypertension, and affective disorders. Conversely, inadequate synthesis of cortisol, as observed in medical conditions such as Addison's disease, can result in symptoms such as exhaustion, reduction in body mass, and hypotension. The maintenance of optimal cortisol levels is crucial for the attainment of overall well-being.

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that occurs endogenously in cellular membranes, with a particular abundance in neuronal membranes. This cellular process is implicated in diverse physiological functions such as intercellular signalling, signal transduction, and maintenance of membrane structural integrity. Phosphatidylserine has garnered interest due to its potential capacity to regulate cortisol levels and facilitate stress mitigation.

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Cortisol and Stress Response

In order to comprehend the regulatory function of phosphatidylserine with respect to cortisol, it is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the stress response and the role played by cortisol in it.

Comprehending the physiological and psychological reactions to stress.

The stress response is a multifaceted physiological response that manifests in the body when confronted with a stressor. The process entails the initiation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, culminating in the discharge of cortisol.

Cortisol plays a crucial role in the stress response by facilitating the mobilization of energy reserves, inhibiting non-essential functions such as digestion and reproductive processes, and augmenting the body's capacity to manage stress. It aids in the regulation of both inflammation and immune responses.

The ramifications of dysregulation of cortisol.

Although cortisol plays a vital role in adapting to short-term stress, prolonged or excessive cortisol release can have adverse effects on our well-being. The persistence of heightened cortisol levels has been linked to various health conditions, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, cognitive dysfunction, sleep disruptions, and metabolic irregularities.

Phosphatidylserine: An Overview

Now, let us proceed to examine the intricacies of phosphatidylserine in depth.

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is naturally occurring in the human body and is particularly abundant in the brain. It is a phospholipid composed of fatty acids, glycerol, and serine. Phospholipids are a crucial constituent of cellular membranes, with a notable prevalence in neural cells, where they play a vital role in preserving cellular organization and activity.

Natural Sources

Phosphatidylserine is present in limited quantities in diverse dietary sources, including fish (notably herring and mackerel), organ meats (such as liver and kidney), soybeans, white beans, and bovine brains. Nevertheless, the dietary intake of phosphatidylserine is comparatively inadequate.

The use of phosphatidylserine as a dietary supplement has been documented in various studies.

Owing to the restricted accessibility of phosphatidylserine via dietary sources, specialized formulations have been devised to furnish a concentrated variant of this particular phospholipid. These supplements are commonly sourced from soy or extracted from phospholipids found in the brain tissue of bovines.

The act of supplementing with phosphatidylserine presents a convenient approach to augment phosphatidylserine consumption and potentially facilitate the regulation of cortisol.

Mechanisms of Action

Let us now delve into the mechanisms by which phosphatidylserine may impact cortisol levels and the body's response to stress.

The present study investigates the interaction between phosphatidylserine and cortisol.

Studies have demonstrated the interaction between phosphatidylserine and cortisol, specifically within the adrenal glands, where cortisol biosynthesis takes place. It is plausible that this intervention could potentially modulate the secretion of cortisol and facilitate a more equitable cortisol reaction to stress.

The impact on the regulation of the HPA axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a pivotal component in the physiological response to stress and the regulation of cortisol levels. The modulation of HPA axis activity has been proposed as a potential effect of phosphatidylserine, which may facilitate a more efficient and regulated response to stress.

Interactions between neurotransmitters and receptors

Phosphatidylserine has the potential to exert an impact on the neurotransmitter systems and their corresponding receptors that are implicated in the stress response, including the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system. Phosphatidylserine has the potential to mitigate stress and enhance emotional well-being by regulating neurotransmitter function.

Potential Benefits of Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine supplementation may have benefits other than cortisol regulation. Among the advantages proposed are:

Stress Reduction: Phosphatidylserine may help reduce stress and improve resilience by promoting a balanced cortisol response and modulating neurotransmitter systems.
Cognitive Support: Phosphatidylserine has been studied for its ability to support cognitive function, such as memory, attention, and processing speed.
Improved Mood: Phosphatidylserine may improve mood by influencing neurotransmitter systems involved in emotional well-being.
Exercise Performance: Some research suggests that phosphatidylserine supplementation may improve exercise performance and post-exercise recovery, but more research is needed.
Age-related Cognitive Decline: Phosphatidylserine has shown promise in improving aging-related cognitive decline, such as memory impairment and age-related cognitive dysfunction.

Safety and Side Effects of Phosphatidylserine

When taken within the recommended dosage range, phosphatidylserine is generally considered safe for most people. It is a naturally occurring substance found in a variety of foods, as well as a dietary supplement. However, before incorporating phosphatidylserine into your routine, you should be aware of any potential side effects and considerations.

Adverse Effects

Phosphatidylserine was well tolerated in clinical trials, with only minor side effects reported. Some people have reported mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach upset, bloating, and gas. These effects are usually transient and will go away on their own.

Sensitivities and allergies

Allergic reactions to phosphatidylserine are uncommon. Individuals who are known to be allergic to soy or other ingredients commonly found in phosphatidylserine supplements should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using them.

Drug Reactions

Certain medications, such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) and antiplatelet agents, may interact with phosphatidylserine. If you are taking any medications, you should consult with a healthcare professional to ensure there are no potential interactions.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy

There is little data on the safety of phosphatidylserine supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As a precaution, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid phosphatidylserine supplements unless specifically advised by their healthcare provider.

Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that is important for brain function, cortisol regulation, and cognitive health. It participates in a number of physiological processes, including neurotransmitter activity and cell membrane integrity.

Phosphatidylserine supplementation has shown promise in improving cognitive function, mood, stress management, and exercise performance. It could be used to treat age-related cognitive decline, ADHD, and sports nutrition. More research is needed, however, to confirm these effects and determine optimal dosages and long-term safety.

Before beginning phosphatidylserine supplementation, as with any dietary supplement, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. They can give you personalized advice based on your personal health profile and help you use phosphatidylserine safely and appropriately.

To summarize, phosphatidylserine is a promising compound that merits further investigation for its potential benefits in a variety of aspects of human health. We can continue to uncover its full therapeutic potential and harness its benefits for cognitive function, stress management, and overall well-being with ongoing research.

References and Resources

https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1550-2783-4-23

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15512856/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2170852/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665496/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7054699/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4508628/