To boost energy, focus on whole foods (nuts, whole grains, veggies), stay hydrated with water, and manage sleep, but if needed, supplements like B vitamins, Vitamin D, Iron, Magnesium, or Coenzyme Q10 can help if deficient, alongside natural stimulants like caffeine in moderation or herbal aids like Ginseng, but always check with a doctor for supplements due to potential side effects and interactions.
Combine food groups: A meal with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs provides the best long-lasting energy. Limit processed snacks: Opt for whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, nuts, and seeds over sugary snacks.
If you have low energy, certain vitamins and supplements may help improve your symptoms. Low levels of B vitamins, vitamin D, and iron can cause fatigue. But taking these vitamins is only likely to improve your energy if your levels are low. Ginseng, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and ashwagandha may all help increase energy.
If you lead an active lifestyle, or you just need an energy boost, both Vitamin B12 and Iron can help reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue. Or if you need to sustain your mental alertness and concentration, Ginseng can support your mental wellbeing.
Simple carbohydrates: Various forms of sugar, such as fructose (fruit sugar) and sucrose (table sugar), are simple carbohydrates. They are small molecules, so they can be broken down and absorbed by the body quickly and are the quickest source of energy.
Vitamin C, Iron and Magnesium Are Also involved in Energy-Yielding Metabolism. Vitamin C is needed for two dioxygenase enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine, an essential cofactor in the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria.
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Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, D, iron, and magnesium, are among the most common causes of unexplained fatigue. Vitamin D deficiencies affect over 50% of the global population, and approximately 12.5% have iron deficiency anemia.
Vitamin B12 and magnesium affect energy levels in other ways as well: Vitamin B12 supports the formation of red blood cells, which helps deliver oxygen to the brain and muscles, thereby reducing fatigue. 3. Magnesium promotes relaxation and sleep, boosting energy, while low levels may impair thinking and cause fatigue.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for bodily functions such as helping to fight infection, wound healing, making our bones strong and regulating hormones.
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Vitamin D is known for its importance for bone health. But it also plays a role in inflammation, immune health, mental health, and energy production. Low vitamin D levels have been linked with fatigue. Adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet may help improve your energy levels after a month.
Most of the time fatigue can be traced to one or more lifestyle issues, such as poor sleep habits or lack of exercise. Fatigue can be caused by a medicine or linked to depression. Sometimes fatigue is a symptom of an illness that needs treatment.
Consult a GP for advice.
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The 40s and 50s
Both fluctuations can result in lower energy levels, feeling lethargic, and less muscle mass. Again, the 40s and 50s impact people differently, with some noticing fewer effects than others. However, during this stage, people will usually notice they're "getting old".
B12 deficiency can trigger specific food cravings, most notably for meat, fish, or eggs, as the body seeks animal-based sources to replenish the vitamin, especially in those on vegetarian/vegan diets or older adults. While cravings for sugary or salty foods can also signal general B-vitamin issues, the distinct urge for protein-rich animal products is a key indicator, but professional testing is crucial for confirmation.
Taking vitamin B12 daily is generally safe for most people, as it's water-soluble and excess is flushed out, but high doses can cause mild side effects like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea in some individuals, while very high levels (especially from injections) might rarely link to other issues, so it's best to stick to recommended amounts unless treating a diagnosed deficiency.
Taking them together is safe and may even enhance absorption and effectiveness when included as part of a balanced daily routine. B12 supports red blood cell formation and cognitive health, while magnesium contributes to relaxation, bone strength, and metabolic processes.
Feeling tired all the time can be caused by a lack of sleep, stress, iron-deficiency anemia, an underactive thyroid, depression, and more. To boost your energy, exercise regularly, establish a consistent bedtime routine, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and other stimulants before bed.
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B Vitamins: The B-vitamin complex, particularly B12 and B6, are crucial for brain health and energy production. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and low motivation. Foods like eggs, meat, fish, and fortified cereals are good sources of B vitamins.
By starting with energy-boosting foods such as bananas, oats, eggs, nuts, and sweet potatoes, you give your body the fuel it needs to function at its best and feel great. These natural energy boosting foods do more than just keep you going, they enhance your mood, concentration, and overall well-being.
When trying to cope with fatigue, a simple rule is to remember The Five P's: Plan, Prioritise, Pace, Position and Permission. Plan and organise your time. Plan your day ahead with periods of rest and periods of activity.