ADHD-- An Overlooked Nutrient for Brain Performance

Phosphatidylserine Impacts Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

A clinical trial published in March 2013 indicates that phosphatidylserine improved symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is characterized by developmentally inappropriate levels of inattention and hyperactivity resulting in functional impairment in academic, family and social settings. The American Psychiatric Association reports that three to seven percent of school children have ADHD. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report results from a study surveying parents and found that approximately 9.5 percent of children four to 17 years of age (5.4 million) have been diagnosed with ADHD. The prevalence has been increasing, as the percentage of children with a parent-reported ADHD diagnosis increased by 22 percent between 2003 and 2007.

The researchers randomly assigned 36 children between four and 14 years of age that had not previously been treated with ADHD medications to receive 200 mg phosphatidylserine or placebo daily for two months. The investigators assessed the children at the beginning of the study and again after the intervention period for ADHD symptoms, short-term auditory memory and working memory using the Digit Span Test of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and mental performance to visual stimuli.

The investigators found that phosphatidylserine supplementation significantly improved ADHD symptoms, short-term auditory memory and inattention and impulsivity. No improvements were seen in the placebo group. Additionally, phosphatidylserine supplementation was well tolerated and did not show adverse effects.

The study authors concluded, “Phosphatidylserine significantly improved ADHD symptoms and short-term auditory memory in children. Phosphatidylserine supplementation might be a safe and natural nutritional strategy for improving mental performance in young children suffering from ADHD.”

Reference:
Hirayama S, et al. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2013 Mar 17.

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