A DHA-containing formula to improve learning and cognitive performance

Abstract

A composition to improve learning and cognitive functions, comprising a combination to promote cognitive brain performance: DHA from fish oil, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylcholine; as well as a combination to provide energy and reduce brain fatigue: B vitamins and galangal extract.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of nutritional and health sciences and relates in particular to a nutrient composition for supporting memory and learning functions of the brain. The composition contains brain-relevant nutrients such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) derived from fish oil, phosphatidylserine (PS), and phosphatidylcholine (PC), and further comprises functional components such as B vitamins and extract from Alpinia galanga. The composition provides structural lipid components required for neuronal cell membranes, supports metabolic pathways associated with neurotransmitters, and supports the brain's energy metabolism. It serves to support brain development and provide essential nutrients during periods of high mental exertion and is suitable as a dietary supplement for adolescents and adults. Background of the invention

[0002] The brain is one of the most complex organs in the human body. Its development and the maintenance of its functions are crucial for cognitive performance, learning ability, and daily life. An extremely complex process of nervous system development begins as early as the embryonic stage. The brain's neuronal connections, the formation of synapses, and the balance of neurotransmitters play a central role in both early development and later neuronal function. Neuronal plasticity and the brain's learning capacity reach their peak during childhood and adolescence. Good nutrition has a particularly significant impact on brain health during this phase. The various physiological activities of the brain are closely linked to communication and information processing between neurons.This not only affects learning ability, but is also closely related to emotions, attention and decision-making ability, as well as other aspects of cognitive functions.

[0003] The brain's cognitive ability is closely linked to an individual's learning capacity. The quality of cognitive abilities directly influences the capacity to learn. Cognitive ability refers to the comprehensive capacity of the human brain to receive, understand, process, store, and apply information from the environment. It forms the core of human mental activity and encompasses virtually all psychological processes such as learning, thinking, decision-making, language, and memory. The learning process itself is essentially an expression of cognitive processes.For example, information intake in the learning process is based on attention and perception; understanding the absorbed content on thinking and language skills; remembering and storing on the memory system; and reaction and expression on the speed of information processing and language skills.

[0004] The development and enhancement of cognitive abilities depend on the structural integrity of the nervous system, the balance of neurotransmitters, synaptic plasticity between neurons, and a stable supply of energy and nutrients. This will be explained in more detail below from a neurophysiological perspective. ① Relationship between cognitive functions and brain structure: Different regions of the human brain perform different tasks within cognitive functions, yet they work together in a highly coordinated manner. The prefrontal cortex is referred to as the brain's "control center" and is the central region for higher cognitive processing. Its main functions include executive functions, planning, decision-making, self-control, and attention regulation. The hippocampus is responsible for converting short-term to long-term memory and plays a particularly important role in spatial memory; its main functions are learning and memory formation. The parietal lobe integrates sensory information and is involved in abstract thinking; its main functions include spatial perception, mathematical reasoning, and attentional distribution.The temporal lobe contains the hippocampus and amygdala and represents an interface between memory and emotion; its main functions include auditory processing, language comprehension, and emotion regulation. The occipital lobe is responsible for receiving and interpreting visual signals; its main function is visual processing and recognition. 2. Relationship between cognitive functions and neurotransmitters: Cognitive brain activity relies on signal transmission between neurons, with neurotransmitters acting as the chemical mediators of these signals. Different neurotransmitters play a crucial role in different cognitive functions. For example, acetylcholine (ACh) is associated with learning, attention, and memory formation. It increases neuronal excitability and is considered a "learning neurotransmitter"; a deficiency is linked to Alzheimer's disease. Glutamate is involved in excitatory signal transmission and synaptic plasticity and plays a role in long-term potentiation (LTP), which is considered the molecular basis of memory formation. Dopamine is associated with motivation, reward, attention, and executive control, thus influencing learning interest and concentration.③ Relationship between cognitive functions, neural networks, and synaptic plasticity: Synaptic plasticity refers to the ability of the connection strength between neurons to change and represents the central mechanism for learning and memory. When two neurons are frequently activated simultaneously, the efficiency of synaptic transmission increases, thereby strengthening information pathways. This process is called long-term potentiation (LTP). The brain continuously shapes its neural networks through LTP and long-term depression (LTD), enabling knowledge storage and skill acquisition.The efficiency of cognitive functions also depends on the following factors: the number of neurons and the density of their connections, the degree of myelination (i.e., the speed of neuronal signal transmission), and the integrative capacity of neuronal networks, especially the connection between the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus. 5. Relationship between cognitive function, brain energy metabolism, and nutrient supply: Although the brain comprises only about 2% of body weight, it consumes approximately 20% of the body's total energy. Cognitive activities are therefore highly dependent on a stable energy and nutrient supply. Important supporting factors include: glucose as the primary energy source for maintaining alertness and mental clarity; DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) as an essential component of neuronal cell membranes for improving synaptic signaling and neuronal plasticity; phosphatidylserine (PS) for stabilizing neuronal cell membranes and supporting signal transmission, thereby improving memory, attention, and learning performance; and B vitamins (e.g., B1, B6, and B12), which are involved in neuronal metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.A deficiency in these vitamins can lead to reduced attention and cognitive slowing. Overall, the efficiency of cognitive functions depends not only on the neuronal networks themselves, but also on the adequate energy supply to the neurons and the health of the cell membrane structures. Nutrients such as DHA and PS play an important role in maintaining synaptic plasticity and neuronal signal transmission.

[0005] Therefore, the following approaches can be pursued to improve cognitive ability and the brain's learning capacity: 1. Maintaining brain structure and supplying the nutrients required for brain structure; 2. Providing necessary amino acids or precursors for neurotransmitters to increase the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the body; 3. Providing targeted nutrients to strengthen the neural network and synaptic plasticity of the brain; 4. Ensuring an adequate brain energy supply, for example through B vitamins to provide energy to the brain and to alleviate fatigue after intensive brain work. Brain development and aging:

[0006] As we age, the brain undergoes a process of development, maturation, and aging. This complex process is influenced by genetic factors, environmental conditions, and lifestyle habits. ① Birth to 3 years: At birth, the brain already possesses a nearly fixed number of neurons, but there are only a few connections between them. During infancy, neuronal connections grow rapidly. This phase is characterized by particularly high neuronal plasticity. External stimuli such as language acquisition and sensory experiences rapidly shape the brain's structure and function. Synaptogenesis is especially active during this phase, resulting in the formation of numerous neuronal networks. 2. 3 to 6 years: During this period, brain development reaches another peak. The number of synapses reaches its maximum, particularly in areas associated with sensory, motor, and language functions. Brain plasticity is very high, and learning ability is especially pronounced. The thickness of the cerebral cortex increases, particularly in areas responsible for sensory processing and motor control. ③ 6 to 12 years (childhood to early adolescence): The brain enters a phase of further maturation, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is associated with decision-making, emotion control, planning, and judgment. During this phase, neural networks are increasingly optimized, and brain regions associated with learning and memory are further strengthened, thereby improving cognitive abilities. ④ Adolescence (approx. 12 to 20 years): During adolescence, much of the brain development is complete; however, the maturation of the prefrontal cortex often continues into the early twenties. Adolescents in this phase often demonstrate a high capacity for learning and well-developed social skills. At the same time, neuronal plasticity remains high, making this phase particularly suitable for learning complex skills and abstract thinking. 2. Adulthood (20 to about 40 years): After the completion of development and maturation, the brain enters a relatively stable phase. Although the number of neurons and brain volume may decrease slightly over time, the brain's functional performance generally remains at a good level, particularly from early adulthood to middle age. ⑥ Middle adulthood (40 to 60 years): With increasing age, certain areas of the brain gradually begin to shrink, particularly those regions closely associated with memory and learning, such as the hippocampus. Nevertheless, most people are still able to maintain relatively stable cognitive performance. In particular, due to accumulated life experience and knowledge, middle-aged adults often possess a high capacity for making informed decisions. However, during this phase, the connectivity of neural networks gradually declines. ⑦ Advanced age (over 60 years): With increasing age, the brain enters a phase of the aging process. This phase is characterized by a gradual structural decline of the brain and a decrease in cognitive functions. The total volume of the brain and the number of nerve cells gradually decrease, particularly in areas associated with memory, learning, and language. The aging process can lead to memory loss, reduced attention, impaired decision-making, and a slowing of information processing. These changes are primarily caused by the loss of neurons, the degradation of synaptic structures, and reduced connectivity of neural networks.

[0007] With society's entry into the rapidly evolving information age, individuals are confronted with unprecedented cognitive demands. Children are still in a phase of rapid brain development and require an adequate supply of brain-relevant nutrients to promote mental development and improve cognitive abilities. Schoolchildren and university students are under considerable academic pressure and must absorb large amounts of knowledge daily and maintain a high level of concentration for extended periods. Insufficient cognitive performance can lead to problems such as reduced attention (e.g., mind-wandering in class), impaired memory (e.g., slower retention of learning material), and slowed reaction times.Even those whose work is primarily mental – such as programmers, analysts, or creative professionals – must make efficient decisions, react quickly, and maintain creative thinking under high pressure. However, persistently high cognitive load can lead to difficulty concentrating, memory loss, slowed reactions, as well as mental exhaustion, stress, and anxiety. These factors can significantly impair learning and work efficiency, as well as quality of life. Therefore, the development of effective nutrition-based intervention strategies to improve cognitive functions – including attention, memory, and reaction time – while simultaneously alleviating mental fatigue is becoming increasingly important. Description of the invention

[0008] The fundamental objective of the present invention is to provide a brain-supporting nutrient composition that improves cognitive performance during learning and simultaneously reduces mental fatigue, in order to meet the high cognitive demands of children, adolescents, and those engaged in mentally demanding work. This objective is achieved by the technical solutions described in the claims.

[0009] Specifically, the present invention provides a fish oil-based composition for improving cognitive learning functions and alleviating mental fatigue. The composition includes, in particular, DHA from fish oil, phosphatidylserine (PS), and phosphatidylcholine (PC) as key neuroactive components, as well as B vitamins and galangal extract as components to support brain energy metabolism and reduce mental fatigue. By improving functions crucial for learning processes—especially attention and memory—and simultaneously reducing mental exhaustion, the composition according to the invention creates favorable conditions for brain development and intensive cognitive activity in children and adolescents.

[0010] Since all raw materials used in the present composition are food-grade, the composition can be used to manufacture products that contribute to improving cognitive performance, learning ability and reducing fatigue, for example in the form of food supplements, functional foods, medical nutrition or other nutritional preparations.

[0011] CN 112568342 A concerns a brain-boosting beverage with a high L-theanine content. The beverage's formula primarily comprises L-theanine extract, goji extract, and taurine, as well as a specific amount of DHA algal oil powder. The beverage has a certain effect on promoting brain function and cognitive performance. L-theanine influences the metabolism and release of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine, thereby potentially regulating or preventing brain disorders controlled by these neurotransmitters. Simultaneously, DHA, as a fatty acid, exhibits particularly pronounced effects on improving memory, cognitive function, and intelligence.

[0012] CN 114601166 A discloses a health-promoting food for improving brain function and memory, consisting of a contents and a capsule shell. The contents include DHA algal oil, phosphatidic acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), taurine, zinc gluconate, soybean oil, and beeswax; the capsule shell consists of gelatin, purified water, glycerin, and titanium dioxide. Several active ingredients exert synergistic effects, thereby supporting brain function and improving memory performance.

[0013] CN 118415343 A relates to a phosphatidylserine-containing multinutrient composition for improving memory performance. 100 g of the multinutrient composition contains 0.5-5 g of phosphatidylserine, 0.5-3 g of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), 1-5 g of kudzu extract, and 1-3 g of taurine; the remaining portion consists entirely of microencapsulated virgin coconut oil powder and enzymatically hydrolyzed oat powder. The composition according to the invention is characterized by high purity, rich nutrients, a scientifically formulated composition, ease of administration, and good portability. It can improve memory, promote blood circulation, improve sleep quality, regulate neuronal activity, and exert a neuroprotective effect. At the same time, the nutrient content is ensured to the greatest extent possible.With long-term use, significant improvements in human behavior and cognitive performance can be observed without significant side effects.

[0014] Single-ingredient DHA supplements, primarily composed of fish oil or algae oil, are the most common form available on the market. However, since cognitive functions represent a complex system encompassing multiple dimensions such as memory, attention, reaction time, and emotional state, DHA supplementation alone can only provide basic structural support—comparable to providing hardware for a computer—without systematically optimizing the "operating system" (i.e., the overall function of the brain). Therefore, its effect on improving reaction time and alleviating mental fatigue is limited. Furthermore, some brain-boosting products focus exclusively on improving memory, neglecting the attention and reaction time equally essential for learning and mental work.The advantage of the present invention lies in its comprehensive consideration of the high demands placed on the brain in children, adolescents, and those engaged in mentally demanding work. By combining fish oil DHA, phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylcholine (PC), B vitamins, and Alpinia galanga extract, a scientifically designed formulation is developed whose ingredients exhibit synergistic effects. This composition can simultaneously improve cognitive learning abilities, effectively reduce mental fatigue, and contribute to brain relaxation, thereby better compensating for the deficiencies of single-ingredient supplements.

[0015] The following is a summary of the individual effects and mechanisms of action of each component: Fish oil is a widely used dietary supplement and is particularly valued for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids. Among these, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is one of the most important active components and is considered crucial for brain development. DHA is the most important omega-3 fatty acid in the gray matter of the mammalian brain and makes up approximately 15-20% of the total fatty acid composition in the frontal lobe cortex of the adult brain. It is an essential component of both the brain and the retina. Studies show that DHA plays a central role in neuronal development as well as cognitive functions.

[0016] During fetal and early childhood development, processes such as neuronal migration, dendritic and axonal growth, and synapse formation and maturation require specific lipid components. DHA plays a crucial role in regulating membrane fluidity and signal transduction, contributing to increased synapse density and the development of neuronal networks. Evidence suggests that maternal DHA intake during pregnancy correlates with early indicators of the infant's cognitive and visual development. Adequate DHA intake during pregnancy may therefore promote healthy fetal brain development and enhance the child's cognitive and visual abilities.

[0017] In children and adolescents, DHA contributes to maintaining the structure and signal transmission of neuronal cell membranes and may be involved in optimizing attention, learning ability, and executive functions, although these effects are also influenced by general nutrition, genetic factors, and environmental conditions. Studies show that in children aged 8–10 years, daily supplementation with 400 mg of DHA over a period of eight weeks significantly increased functional activation of the prefrontal cortex (BA9) during executive attention tasks, while simultaneously reducing activation in the occipital and cerebellar cortices. Compared to the control group without DHA supplementation, attention was increased fourfold.

[0018] In adulthood, DHA contributes to maintaining the lipid composition of brain membranes, synaptic plasticity, and the regulation of inflammatory processes, and can therefore potentially contribute to preserving cognitive function. In older age, DHA may also help slow neurodegenerative processes and counteract cognitive decline.

[0019] Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a lipid molecule widely distributed in brain cell membranes, playing a crucial role in signal transmission and the regulation of nerve cell membrane fluidity. As an important brain nutrient, PS has been extensively studied for its effects on maintaining neuronal structural integrity, promoting neuronal signaling, and supporting cognitive functions. With regard to attention, PS may enhance concentration by improving neuronal signaling in the cortex. This makes PS a potential aid for individuals with concentration difficulties or increased distractibility, particularly those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).Studies show that in children aged 6-12 years, supplementation with 200 mg of phosphatidylserine (PS) per day for two months led to a significant improvement in symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The inattention score on the Reverse Test decreased by 94%, while the total number of errors caused by inattention and impulsivity was reduced by 40%. Furthermore, PS can improve the efficiency of information transmission by promoting synaptic plasticity between neurons, thereby supporting the formation and retrieval of memories. Studies indicate that phosphatidylserine supplementation can improve both short-term and long-term memory.Further literature reports that PS can significantly improve various forms of memory in graduating students, including directional, associational, image-based free recall, recognition of meaningless data, and facial feature recall.

[0020] Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the most abundant phospholipid in neuronal cell membranes, comprising approximately 40–50% of all phospholipids in the brain. It significantly determines the fluidity, flexibility, and signal transduction efficiency of the cell membrane. PC directly influences the speed of neuronal signal transmission and response sensitivity, and is closely related to cognitive functions such as reaction time and information processing speed. PC is also the body's primary source of choline, and choline is the crucial precursor for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a key neurotransmitter involved in reaction time, motor coordination, and learning and memory processes, and is primarily found in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.When PC is sufficiently supplied, choline production increases, thereby enhancing the synthesis of acetylcholine and accelerating neuronal signal transmission. Conversely, a PC deficiency can lead to a slowing of neuronal responses. Furthermore, PC promotes the conversion of short-term to long-term memory. The hippocampus is highly dependent on the cholinergic system for memory consolidation. By increasing acetylcholine levels, PC can enhance neuronal activity in the hippocampus, improve synaptic plasticity, and thus promote memory consolidation.

[0021] The mechanism by which fish oil DHA, phosphatidylserine (PS), and phosphatidylcholine (PC) collectively improve learning and cognitive abilities is as follows: First, all three components are structural elements of the brain's neuronal cell membrane and together form the structural basis for improved cognitive performance. PC is the most abundant component of membrane phospholipids in the brain, comprising approximately 40–50% of the total phospholipids. It forms the main framework of the phospholipid bilayer. PC is predominantly located in the outer layer of the cell membrane; its head group contains choline, while the tail consists of two fatty acid chains linked by a glycerol backbone. The proportion of PS is comparatively lower (approximately 5–10%), but its position is particularly specific and stable—it is located almost exclusively on the inner side of the cell membrane.Its head group contains a serine residue and carries an overall negative charge. DHA can bind to the glycerol backbone of phosphatidylcholine (PC) via ester bonds, forming a DHA-containing phosphatidylcholine molecule (DHA-PC). Similarly, DHA can bind to the acyl position of phosphatidylserine (PS) to form a DHA-containing phosphatidylserine molecule (DHA-PS). DHA is typically esterified at the sn-2 position of phospholipid molecules, creating highly dynamic microdomains in the membrane (a structural basis of lipid rafts). These microdomains serve as sites for the assembly and interaction of signaling proteins.

[0022] Secondly, at a metabolic level, PS and PC support the transport of DHA from the oral route to the brain, where it exerts its function. After oral ingestion, DHA is absorbed in the intestine and subsequently preferentially esterified in the liver to the phosphatidylcholine (PC) backbone, forming DHA-PC, which enters the bloodstream. This represents the main circulating form of DHA in the plasma and a long-distance reservoir. In the bloodstream, DHA-PC is hydrolyzed by phospholipase A2 (PLA2), releasing a fatty acid chain and yielding lysophosphatidylcholine DHA (LPC-DHA). LPC-DHA has a specific structure and is the preferred transport form of DHA for crossing the blood-brain barrier.LPC-DHA is recognized by the transport protein MFSD2A, which is specifically expressed on the endothelial cells of brain capillaries, and transported from the bloodstream into the brain via a sodium-dependent active transport mechanism, thus enabling the directed delivery of DHA to the central nervous system. After entering brain cells, DHA is re-esterified by the enzyme LPCAT as part of the Lands cycle, forming DHA-PC and incorporating it into the cell membrane. Simultaneously, phosphatidylserine synthase 1 (PSS1) uses DHA-PC as a substrate and, through a base exchange reaction, replaces the choline head group with serine, directly forming DHA-PS. DHA-PS accumulates specifically in lipid raft microdomains on the inner side of the cell membrane. Its negatively charged head group recruits and activates signaling proteins such as protein kinase C (PKC) and actinic phosphate (APT).In this process, PC acts as a "transporter" from the digestive tract to the brain, while PS functions as a "positional anchor," localizing DHA to signal-active membrane regions. DHA thus acts as a central functional factor, improving both membrane fluidity and signal transduction efficiency, ultimately resulting in increased concentration and improved memory formation.

[0023] Third, the three components exhibit functional synergistic effects. DHA acts on the lipid layer of the neuronal membrane, improving its fluidity, promoting synapse formation and signal transmission, and thereby increasing the speed of neuronal information transfer. PS acts on the inner phospholipid layer of the neuronal membrane, stabilizing the membrane structure and regulating the release of neurotransmitters, particularly acetylcholine and dopamine. PC, as the main component of membrane phospholipids, provides structural support for the membrane and simultaneously serves as a precursor for choline, which is required for the synthesis of acetylcholine. Together, DHA, PS, and PC contribute to the structural integrity and functional efficiency of the neuronal cell membrane.

[0024] Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the most abundant phospholipid in neuronal membranes, comprising approximately 30–40% of all phospholipids. It determines the fluidity, flexibility, and efficiency of membrane signal transmission. PC directly influences the speed of neuronal signal transmission and responsiveness, and is thus closely related to cognitive functions such as reaction time and information processing speed. PC is the body's primary source of choline, and choline is the central precursor for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a key neurotransmitter involved in reaction time, motor coordination, and learning and memory processes, and is primarily found in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.When sufficient PC is present, choline production increases, thereby increasing the synthesis of acetylcholine and accelerating neuronal signal transmission; conversely, a PC deficiency can lead to slowed neuronal responses. Furthermore, PC promotes the conversion of short-term to long-term memory. The hippocampus relies heavily on the cholinergic system for memory consolidation. By increasing acetylcholine levels, PC enhances neuronal activity in the hippocampus, increases synaptic plasticity, and thus promotes memory consolidation.

[0025] In the composition according to the invention, the B vitamins and galangal extract function as a "brain-relaxing nutrient complex" that contributes to the relaxation of neuronal activity and provides the brain with new energy. The brain is one of the most energy-intensive organs in the human body. Prolonged intense mental strain, psychological stress, and an irregular lifestyle can lead to disturbances in neuronal metabolism and a lack of energy in the brain, which manifests as reduced attention, slowed reactions, and mental exhaustion. By alleviating mental fatigue and providing activating nutrients to brain cells, neuronal metabolism and the efficiency of signal transmission can be restored. This promotes a balance between cognitive function and mental state, which contributes to maintaining clear thinking, quick reactions, and sustained concentration.

[0026] B vitamins are key to the brain's energy supply by promoting energy production and reducing neuronal fatigue. For example, vitamin B1 (thiamine) is involved in glucose breakdown and ATP production, thus providing energy for brain cells. A deficiency can lead to fatigue and reduced attention. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B3 (niacinamide) are involved in mitochondrial energy production and increase the efficiency of energy conversion in brain cells. Vitamin B6, vitamin B6 12 Folic acid and folate act as coenzymes in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, and contribute to maintaining the balance of neuronal signals. Overall, B vitamins improve the brain's energy supply, promote neurotransmitter synthesis, and reduce fatigue and mental sluggishness caused by an "energy bottleneck" in the brain.

[0027] Galangal extract can stably and continuously increase users' mental energy and cognitive alertness. Its mechanism of action involves two main pathways. First, it inhibits dopamine reuptake. The dopamine transporter (DAT) is located on the presynaptic membrane of neurons and is responsible for actively reabsorbing dopamine from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. Galangal extract binds to the dopamine transporter and prevents the reuptake of dopamine from the synaptic cleft, thereby increasing dopamine levels.

[0028] Secondly, galangal extract inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine (ACh). Acetylcholine is an excitatory neurotransmitter whose main function is to maintain wakefulness. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) breaks down acetylcholine, thereby ending the neurotransmitter's excitatory effect on the postsynaptic membrane. By inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, galangal extract increases acetylcholine levels and thus produces an invigorating effect.

[0029] According to the present invention, the product is used to improve the cognitive learning ability of the brain. Based on its mechanism of action, the composition can be divided into two functional components: a cognitive nutrient combination for the brain, consisting of DHA from fish oil, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidylcholine, and an energy component for the brain, consisting of B vitamins and galangal extract. This combination forms the basis of the present invention, and the dosages are known to healthcare professionals.

[0030] Specifically, the present invention provides a composition for improving learning and cognitive functions, comprising DHA from fish oil, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, B vitamins, and galangal extract. The dosage is as follows: DHA 100-400 mg, phosphatidylserine 2-100 mg, phosphatidylcholine 2-100 mg, B vitamins 500-2000 µg, and galangal extract 20-200 mg.

[0031] Furthermore, the purity of the fish oil is no less than 80%.

[0032] Furthermore, the phosphatidylserine comes from soy or other natural sources.

[0033] The phosphatidylcholine comes from egg yolk or other natural sources.

[0034] Furthermore, the fish oil composition is available in the form of a solid powder or an emulsion.

[0035] Furthermore, the group of B vitamins includes at least two types, including but not limited to vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B9 and vitamin B12.

[0036] Furthermore, the galangal extract has a particle size of at least 80 mesh.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment according to the present invention, the administration dosage of the combination of fish oil DHA, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, B vitamins and galangal extract is: DHA 300-400 mg, phosphatidylserine 5-20 mg, phosphatidylcholine 5-20 mg, B vitamins 1000-1500 µg and galangal extract 50-100 mg.

[0038] As is generally known in the field, the appropriate dosage depends on various factors, such as body weight, age, sex, and developmental stage. The dosage regimen also depends on the specific dose, the patient's general health, and any other medications taken concurrently. Therefore, based on the aforementioned factors, a suitable dosage regimen for the composition according to the invention can be determined by consulting a physician.

[0039] According to the present invention, the active ingredients include, but are not limited to, the components mentioned above.

[0040] According to the present invention, the content of the above-mentioned active ingredient combination corresponds to the amount provided by a minimal independent packaging unit of the product. The daily intake is typically 1-2 such minimal units.

[0041] The compositional products according to the present invention may contain excipients that facilitate ingestion and regulate taste, such as purified water, sweeteners (such as sugar, sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners), acidulants, fruit juices, flavorings, antioxidants, preservatives, natural or artificial flavorings and vegetable essential oils.

[0042] According to the present invention, the above-mentioned combination of active ingredients can be contained in various products, for example in foods, food supplements, (supplementary) balanced diets, functional foods, pharmaceutical products, as well as in solid, liquid or semi-liquid preparations.

[0043] Furthermore, the above-mentioned combination of active ingredients according to the present invention can be in the form of liquids, powders, granules or suspensions and can be provided in various dosage forms, such as soft capsules or beverages. Cited patent literature CN 112568342 A CN 114601166 A CN 118415343 A Cited non-patent literature [1]Anderson B, Harvey T. Alterations in cortical thickness and neuronal density in the frontal cortex of Albert Einstein. Neurosci Lett. 1996 Jun 7;210(3):161-4. [2]McNamara R K, Able J, Jandacek R, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation increases prefrontal cortex activation during sustained attention in healthy boys: a placebo-controlled, dose-ranging, functional magnetic resonance imaging study[J]. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 2010, 91(4): 1060-1067. [3]Hirayama S, Terasawa K, Rabeler R, et al. The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial[J]. Journal of human nutrition and dietetics, 2014, 27: 284-291. [4]Higashiyama A, Htay H H, Ozeki M, et al. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response[J]. Journal of functional foods, 2011, 3(3): 171-178. [5]Lauritzen L, Brambilla P, Mazzocchi A, et al. DHA effects in brain development and function[J]. Nutrients, 2016, 8(1): 6. [6]Chung S Y, Moriyama T, Uezu E, et al. Administration of phosphatidylcholine increases brain acetylcholine concentration and improves memory in mice with dementia[J]. The Journal of nutrition, 1995, 125(6): 1484-1489. [7]Huang C, Wang R, Wang Y, et al. Sialic Acid Enhanced the Antistress Capability under Challenging Situations by Increasing Synaptic Transmission[J]. The Journal of Nutrition, 2023, 153(9): 2561-2570. [8]Oliveros E, Vázquez E, Barranco A, et al. Sialic acid and sialylated oligosaccharide supplementation during lactation improves learning and memory in rats[J]. Nutrients, 2018, 10(10): 1519. [9]Yamashita S, Kawada N, Wang W, et al. Effects of egg yolk choline intake on cognitive functions and plasma choline levels in healthy middle-aged and older Japanese: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled parallel-group study[J]. Lipids in health and disease, 2023, 22(1): 75.

[10] Richardson A J, Burton J R, Sewell R P, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid for reading, cognition and behavior in children aged 7-9 years: a randomized, controlled trial (the DOLAB Study)[J]. 2012.

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[13] Laidlaw M, Cockerline C A, Rowe W J. A randomized clinical trial to determine the efficacy of manufacturers'recommended doses of omega-3 fatty acids from different sources in facilitating cardiovascular disease risk reduction[J]. Lipids in health and disease, 2014, 13(1): 99.

[14] Jin J, Jin Q, Wang X, et al. High sn-2 docosahexaenoic acid lipids for brain benefits, and their enzymatic syntheses: A review[J]. Engineering, 2020, 6(4): 424-431.

[15] Timby Niklas, et al. “Supplementation of Infant Formula with Bovine Milk Fat Globule Membranes.” Advances in Nutrition 8. 2 (2017): 351-355. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CN 112568342 A [0011, 0043] CN 114601166 A [0012, 0043] CN 118415343 A [0013, 0043] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] Anderson B, Harvey T. Alterations in cortical thickness and neuronal density in the frontal cortex of Albert Einstein. Neurosci Lett. 1996 Jun 7;210(3):161-4

[0043] McNamara R K, Able J, Jandacek R, et al. Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation increases prefrontal cortex activation during sustained attention in healthy boys: a placebo-controlled, dose-ranging, functional magnetic resonance imaging study[J]. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 2010, 91(4): 1060-1067

[0043] Hirayama S, Terasawa K, Rabeler R, et al. The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial[J]. Journal of human nutrition and dietetics, 2014, 27: 284-291

[0043] Higashiyama A, Htay H H, Ozeki M, et al. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response[J]. Journal of functional foods, 2011, 3(3): 171-178

[0043] Lauritzen L, Brambilla P, Mazzocchi A, et al. DHA effects in brain development and function[J]. Nutrients, 2016, 8(1): 6

[0043] Chung S Y, Moriyama T, Uezu E, et al. Administration of phosphatidylcholine increases brain acetylcholine concentration and improves memory in mice with dementia[J]. The Journal of nutrition, 1995, 125(6): 1484-1489

[0043] Huang C, Wang R, Wang Y, et al. Sialic Acid Enhanced the Antistress Capability under Challenging Situations by Increasing Synaptic Transmission[J]. The Journal of Nutrition, 2023, 153(9): 2561-2570

[0043] Oliveros E, Vázquez E, Barranco A, et al. Sialic acid and sialylated oligosaccharide supplementation during lactation improves learning and memory in rats[J]. Nutrients, 2018, 10(10): 1519

[0043] Yamashita S, Kawada N, Wang W, et al. Effects of egg yolk choline intake on cognitive functions and plasma choline levels in healthy middle-aged and older Japanese: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled parallel-group study[J]. Lipids in health and disease, 2023, 22(1): 75

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Claims

A composition to improve learning and cognitive functions, comprising a combination to promote cognitive brain performance: DHA from fish oil, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylcholine; as well as a combination to provide energy and reduce brain fatigue: B vitamins and galangal extract. Composition according to claim 1, wherein the dosage of DHA is 300-400 mg, the dosage of phosphatidylserine is 5-20 mg, the dosage of phosphatidylcholine is 5-20 mg, the dosage of B vitamins is 500-2000 µg, and the dosage of galangal extract is 20-200 mg. Composition according to claim 1, wherein the dosage of DHA is 300-400 mg, the dosage of phosphatidylserine is 5-20 mg, the dosage of phosphatidylcholine is 5-20 mg, the dosage of B vitamins is 1000-1500 µg, and the dosage of galangal extract is 50-100 mg. Composition according to claim 1, wherein the purity of the fish oil is not less than 80%, the phosphatidylserine is derived from soy or other natural sources, the phosphatidylcholine is derived from egg yolk or other natural sources, and the group of B vitamins comprises at least two types.