Vayarin was one of the earliest dietary supplements that supported people living with ADHD. It supplied a balanced and easy-to-take combination of phosphatidylserine supplement with omega-3-rich eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
Since the withdrawal of Vayarin from the market, there has been a steady stream of interest about whether any substitute was coming onto the market. In 2023, the pharmaceutical team at Pharma Shaul in Israel partnered with an experienced manufacturer in the US to bring to the market a new and improved version of Vayarin, under the label Zoomind. See the table below for details about the original supplement and our new version.
Common benefits
Omega-3 fats and phosphatidylserine support normal brain function by boosting the levels of essential neurotransmitters. This can help improve attention and lower hyperactivity symptoms in people with ADHD. The neurotransmitters known to influence the brain’s functioning and which can create the symptoms of ADHD are dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Boosting the body’s intake of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can benefit people with ADHD. Omega-3 is not produced in the body, so it must be part of the diet. A diet rich in healthy Omega-3 fats can support brain health and help correct cognitive and behavioral problems like ADHD.
Zoomind additional benefits
L-tyrosine is an amino acid that acts as a precursor to the production of neurotransmitters, especially dopamine. It boosts the levels of dopamine production in the brain.
Researchers have found that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the specific PUFAs that are beneficial for boosting levels of the essential neurotransmitters and supporting symptoms of ADHD. The ratio of EPA to DHA of 3:1, as contained in Zoomind, will provide the best support for ADHD symptoms.
Specific biochemical functions
Phosphatidylserine (PS) helps maintain the integrity of cell membranes, cell excitability, and cell-to-cell communication. PS regulates key proteins in neuronal membranes, including sodium/calcium ATPase and protein kinase C, which undertake crucial functions in some signal transduction pathways. PS influences neurotransmitter activity, such as acetylcholine, dopamine, and noradrenaline release, and increases brain glucose levels. Low level of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are believed to be one of the leading causes of ADHD symptoms. PUFAs can’t be produced in normal metabolic processes within the brain but must be part of dietary intake. L-tyrosine is an amino acid. It is a precursor for producing several important neurotransmitters, including epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Packaging – 60 capsules/bottle - $70
Dosage – Two capsules per day, with or without food
Possible side effects – Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
Effective October 1, 2023, Zoomind is being sold at the Tarnow Center.