Sharp-PS®: Can Phosphatidylserine Help Support Memory, Focus, and Stress?

What Is Sharp-PS®?

If you’ve been looking into supplements for brain health, memory, or stress support, you’ve probably come across Sharp-PS®.

Sharp-PS® is a patented, plant-derived form of phosphatidylserine (PS), a naturally occurring phospholipid found in every cell membrane in the body. It is especially concentrated in the brain, where it helps maintain healthy nerve cell structure and supports communication between brain cells.¹

As we age, phosphatidylserine levels may gradually decline, prompting researchers to investigate whether supplementation could help support cognitive function and healthy brain aging.²

Let’s take a closer look at what the science says.

What Does Phosphatidylserine Do?

Phosphatidylserine plays several important roles in brain health.

It helps:

• Maintain healthy neuronal cell membranes
• Support communication between brain cells (neurons)
• Contribute to neurotransmitter function
• Support normal memory, attention, and learning processes¹,²

Because the brain contains high concentrations of phosphatidylserine, researchers have studied whether supplementation may help preserve cognitive performance throughout adulthood.

What Does the Research Say?

May Support Memory and Cognitive Function

The strongest evidence for phosphatidylserine comes from studies in older adults experiencing age-related memory concerns.

Several randomized clinical trials have found that phosphatidylserine supplementation may support aspects of memory, learning, and cognitive performance, particularly in individuals with mild age-associated cognitive decline.³,⁴

A systematic review also concluded that phosphatidylserine shows promise for supporting cognitive function, although larger, longer-term studies are still needed to strengthen the evidence.⁵

May Help Support Focus and Attention

Researchers have also explored phosphatidylserine for attention and mental performance.

Some studies suggest supplementation may improve attention, processing speed, and executive function in both older adults and younger individuals under demanding cognitive tasks.²,⁶ While findings are encouraging, results have been mixed across studies, highlighting the need for additional high-quality research.

May Support a Healthy Stress Response

One of phosphatidylserine’s most interesting areas of research involves stress.

During periods of physical or mental stress, the body produces cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone.” Some evidence suggests phosphatidylserine supplementation may help support a healthy cortisol response during mentally demanding situations.⁷

It’s important to note that phosphatidylserine is not a treatment for anxiety or chronic stress disorders, but it may complement healthy lifestyle habits such as adequate sleep, regular exercise, and stress-management techniques.

Who May Benefit?

Sharp-PS® may be worth considering for adults who want to support:

• Healthy memory and learning
• Focus and concentration
• Cognitive performance during aging
• A healthy response to everyday stress

Like all dietary supplements, Sharp-PS® works best as part of an overall brain health strategy that includes quality sleep, regular physical activity, social engagement, and a nutrient-rich diet.

Is Sharp-PS® Safe?

Phosphatidylserine has generally demonstrated a favourable safety profile in human clinical studies when used at recommended doses. Most clinical trials have investigated phosphatidylserine at daily doses ranging from 100 to 300 mg, with 300 mg being the most commonly studied dose for cognitive health. Sharp-PS® in Wellex Creatine Well provides 100 mg per serving, placing it within the range evaluated in human clinical research.³⁻⁷ Mild digestive discomfort has occasionally been reported, as with any dietary supplement, but serious adverse effects are uncommon.¹˒²

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

How Does Sharp-PS® Compare to Other Brain Health Ingredients?

Unlike caffeine, which provides short-term stimulation, phosphatidylserine is thought to support the structure and function of neuronal cell membranes. It is also different from ingredients like creatine or citicoline, which influence brain energy metabolism through different mechanisms. These ingredients are sometimes combined because they may provide complementary support.

The Bottom Line

Sharp-PS® is a well-researched, plant-derived form of phosphatidylserine that supports the structure and function of brain cells. Clinical research suggests it may help support memory, attention, and a healthy stress response, while supporting cognitive health with age. While more long-term studies are needed, the current evidence is promising and supports its role as one component of a comprehensive brain health routine.

References

1. Kim HY. Phosphatidylserine in the brain: metabolism and function. Prog Lipid Res. 2013;52(4):457-467.
2. Glade MJ, Smith K. Phosphatidylserine and the human brain. Nutrition. 2015;31(6):781-786.
3. Kato-Kataoka A, Sakai M, Ebina R, Nonaka C, Asano T, Miyamori T. Soybean-derived phosphatidylserine improves memory function of the elderly with memory complaints. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2010;47(3):246-255.
4. Richter Y, Herzog Y, Lifshitz Y, Hayun R, Zchut S. The effect of soybean-derived phosphatidylserine on cognitive performance in elderly with subjective memory complaints. Clin Interv Aging. 2013;8:557-563.
5. Cenacchi T, Bertoldin T, Farina C, Fiori MG, Crepaldi G. Cognitive decline in the elderly: a double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study on efficacy of phosphatidylserine administration. Aging (Milano). 1993;5(2):123-133.
6. Kingsley MI, Miller M, Kilduff LP, McEneny J, Benton D. Effects of phosphatidylserine on cognitive performance during exercise and recovery. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2006;38(1):64-71.
7. Starks MA, Starks SL, Kingsley M, Purpura M, Jäger R. The effects of phosphatidylserine on endocrine response to moderate-intensity exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2008;5:11.