Randomised trial, 2018
Does a phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid supplement reduce PMS symptoms?
Yes, women taking this supplement had significantly better improvement in PMS symptoms compared to placebo, including improvements in physical and depressive symptoms. The study was small but well-designed.
What they did
40 women aged 18-45 with PMS were randomly assigned to take either a supplement containing 400mg phosphatidylserine and 400mg phosphatidic acid daily or placebo. The study tracked symptoms during 1 baseline cycle followed by 3 treatment cycles, measuring severity using daily reports.
What they found
Women taking the supplement had significantly better improvement in total PMS symptoms (p=0.001), physical symptoms (p=0.002), and depressive symptoms (p=0.068) compared to placebo. They also reported less reduction in productivity and less interference with relationships. Stress hormone levels (cortisol) showed some improvements in the supplement group.
What it means for you
A supplement containing phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid may help reduce PMS symptoms and improve mood and relationships. The study was small with only 40 women and lasted just 3 months, so more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
40
women enrolled
400 mg
phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid daily
3
treatment cycles
About the study
- Original title
- A lecithin phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid complex (PAS) reduces symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial
- Authors
- Schmidt K, Weber N, Steiner M et al.
- Journal
- Clinical nutrition ESPEN
- Year
- 2018
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- Daily supplement of 400mg phosphatidylserine and 400mg phosphatidic acid
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2018.01.067
Topics
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