Amino Acid
L-Serine
Also known as: Serine, L-2-amino-3-hydroxypropanoic acid, Ser
L-serine is a non-essential amino acid that serves as a precursor for phosphatidylserine and neurotransmitter synthesis. Limited clinical evidence supports its use for cognitive or neurological support, with most research occurring in specialized medical contexts.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every L-Serine product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Double Wood L-Serine Supplement | 86 A- | $0.44 |
| 2 | Pure Encapsulations Amino-NR | 79 B+ | $0.78 |
| 3 | NOW Foods Brain Elevate | 77 B+ | $0.26 |
| 4 | Pure Encapsulations Amino Replete | 73 B+ | $0.88 |
| 5 | MegaFood Adrenal Strength | 73 B+ | $1.33 |
| 6 | Integrative Therapeutics Detoxication Factors | 64 B- | $1.17 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much L-Serine should I take?
The typical range is 1-5 g daily. Safe for long-term use as an amino acid
When should I take L-Serine?
Any time of day; can be taken with meals. No specific requirement; food does not significantly impair absorption.
Which form of L-Serine is best?
Powder. Other forms in the catalog: Capsule.
Is L-Serine safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well-tolerated, Mild gastrointestinal upset possible at high doses.
Which L-Serine supplement scores highest?
Double Wood L-Serine Supplement, at 86/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Cognitive support
- Neurological function
- Phospholipid synthesis
- General amino acid nutrition
How it works
- Precursor for phosphatidylserine (PS) and sphingolipid synthesis
- Substrate for neurotransmitter production
- Component of protein synthesis
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-5 g daily
- Timing
- Any time of day; can be taken with meals
- With food
- No specific requirement; food does not significantly impair absorption
- Duration
- Safe for long-term use as an amino acid
- Special populations
- Generally recognized as safe; minimal data in pregnancy/lactation
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild gastrointestinal upset possible at high doses
Contraindications
- None well-established; caution in severe renal impairment
Products containing L-Serine
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list L-Serine on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
L-serine is a well-characterized amino acid with established biochemical roles, but clinical evidence for supplementation benefits in healthy populations is limited and preliminary. Most human studies involve specialized populations (e.g., neurological disorders) rather than general wellness.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Amino Acid
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.