In our previous article, we broke down what phosphatidylserine (PS) is — a powerful phospholipid that plays a crucial role in brain health, memory, and cellular function. But beyond its role in cognition, PS has also caught the attention of researchers and wellness experts for something even more timely:
Its potential to help the body manage stress and regulate cortisol levels.
In this follow-up, we’re diving deeper into how phosphatidylserine may help blunt stress responses, support adrenal balance, and promote overall calm — backed by real clinical research.
So if you’ve ever felt wired but tired, snappy under pressure, or like your body’s stuck in overdrive, this one’s for you.
But is there real science behind this? Let’s dive into what research says about PS and cortisol, and how this supplement might support your stress response.
What Is Cortisol and Why Does It Matter?
Cortisol is a hormone released by your adrenal glands during stress. It’s not bad in itself — in fact, it helps regulate:
- Blood sugar
- Blood pressure
- Inflammation
- Energy availability
However, chronic high cortisol levels can wreak havoc on your body and mind, leading to:
- Fatigue & brain fog
- Anxiety, irritability, and poor sleep
- Immune suppression
- Increased belly fat
- Hormonal imbalance
If you’ve ever stood up too fast and felt dizzy, snapped at someone while tired, or couldn’t fall asleep because your mind was racing — cortisol likely had a hand in it.
Can Phosphatidylserine Reduce Cortisol Levels?
Yes — at least in certain conditions.
Several clinical studies show that PS supplementation can reduce cortisol responses, especially in response to physical or acute stress. Here’s a look at the evidence:
|
No |
Study |
Method |
Findings |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Starks et al., 2008 (10 men) |
600 mg PS/day for 10 days + exercise test |
Cortisol levels dropped ~39% vs placebo during exercise stress |
|
2 |
Monteleone et al., 1992 (9 men) |
800 mg PS/day for 10 days |
Lower ACTH and cortisol after physical stress challenge |
|
3 |
Hellhammer et al., 2014 (75 men, stressed) |
42 days of PS + phosphatidic acid (PAS) |
Reduced cortisol in chronically stressed subgroup after mental stress |
|
4 |
Maggioni et al., 2015 (elderly, depressed) |
PS + Omega-3 for 12 weeks |
Normalized cortisol rhythm and improved mood in responders |
How Does It Work?
Scientists believe PS supports healthy cortisol balance by:
-
Modulating the HPA axis
PS may calm the stress response at its source: the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. -
Supporting brain signalling & membrane health
Healthy cell membranes = better control of receptor signalling, including how your body interprets stress. -
Promoting mental resilience
Some studies show PS improves mood, memory, and focus — helping the mind stay cool under pressure.
Should You Try It?
You might benefit from PS if you:
- Experience frequent stress or fatigue
- Work in high-pressure environments
- Have trouble with sleep, focus, or burnout
- Do intense physical training or endurance sports
- Want to support your brain–body resilience
Final Thoughts
Phosphatidylserine is one of the few natural supplements with clinical evidence for modulating cortisol and supporting stress resilience — especially when life gets overwhelming.
While more large-scale studies are needed, the current research is encouraging for those seeking gentle, science-backed support for their nervous system.
If your brain and body are yelling “too much!” — it might be time to give PS a closer look.
References:
1. Starks MA, Starks SL, Kingsley M, Purpura M & Jäger R (2008) The effects of phosphatidylserine on endocrine response to moderate intensity exercise, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 5(11), date referred: 1 Oct 2025, <The effects of phosphatidylserine on endocrine response to moderate intensity exercise - PubMed>.
2. Monteleone P, Maj M, Beinat L, Natale M & Kemali D (1992) Blunting by chronic phosphatidylserine administration of the stress-induced activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis in healthy men. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 42, 385–388.
3. Hellhammer J, Vogt D, Franz N, Freitas U, Rutenberg D (2014) A soy-based phosphatidylserine/ phosphatidic acid complex (PAS) normalizes the stress reactivity of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal-axis in chronically stressed male subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study, Lipids in Health and Disease 13(121), 1-11.
4. Maggioni M, Picotti GB, Bondiolotti GP, Panerai A, Cenacchi T, Nobile P, Brambilla F. (1990) Effects of phosphatidylserine therapy in geriatric patients with depressive disorders, Acta Psychiatr Scand, 81(3), 265-270.
