DMAE is thought to work by increasing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in neurological functions such as learning and memory. This body chemical assists in the communication process throughout the central nervous system. This communication process also regulates muscle activation. It has also been discovered that low levels of acetylcholine in the brain may be linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

    Additional research indicates DMAE supports phosphatidylcholine. It is part of a group of phospholipids (fats) that are vital to cell membranes, especially in the brain and nervous system.

    The dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine form is known as lecithin and is available from eggs, sunflower and soybeans. Lecithin is a choline (B-complex vitamin) containing phospholipid that serves as an antioxidant, fat emulsifier and assists in choline absorption. For numerous reasons, many people do not maintain adequate levels of the Vitamin B-complex. As a result, choline deficiency is common (especially postmenopausal women). Lecithin contains phosphatidylcholine which is the most abundant phospholipid in the cell membrane.

    Phosphatidylserine is also a phospholipid and critical component of cell wall integrity communication function. Found in meat, dairy and vegetables, PS exists in high amounts in the brain and central nervous system. It has also been found to reduce cortisol levels (the hormone produced by the adrenals during stress).

    Neurologic research has indicated that 100mg of phosphatidylserine, taken three times daily, improved learning and memory function in patients with age-associated memory impairment. In a study published in a 1992 issue of “European Neuropsychopharmacol,” researchers found that taking 300 milligrams of phosphatidylserine daily for two months helped to improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.