For extreme fatigue, see a doctor to rule out underlying issues, but you can also try lifestyle changes like regular, gentle exercise (even 20 mins), staying hydrated, eating balanced meals (whole grains, lean protein, fruits/veg), managing stress, and prioritizing sleep hygiene (consistent bedtime, limiting screens). Supplements like Vitamin D, B12, Magnesium, Iron (if deficient), and CoQ10 might help, but get tested first, and avoid unproven "energy" boosters.
There's no specific medicine for treating ME/CFS, but medicine can be used to relieve some of the symptoms. Painkillers you buy from a pharmacy or supermarket can help ease headaches, as well as muscle and joint pain. A GP can prescribe stronger painkillers, although they should only be used on a short-term basis.
Suggestions include:
Some additional supplements to consider for energy include:
To relieve fatigue, your provider will treat (or help you manage) the condition or disorder that's causing it. Depending on your health, your treatment plan may include a combination of medication, exercise or therapy.
The four Ps are problem solving, planning, prioritising and pacing. The aim is to think of the four Ps at the beginning of each day or week to help you manage your energy levels.
Profound and debilitating fatigue is the most common complaint reported among individuals with autoimmune disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Deficiencies in cobalamin (vitamin B12) can result in diminished energy and exercise tolerance, together with fatigue and shortness of breath.
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.
The only pharmacy product proven safe and effective in helping fight fatigue and drowsiness is caffeine, found in such OTC products as Vivarin and NoDoz. Each caplet or tablet contains 200 mg of caffeine. Take one dose not more often than every 3 to 4 hours.
Fatigue becomes worrisome when it lasts over a couple of weeks without relief, disrupts daily activities, comes on suddenly without a clear cause, or is accompanied by "red flag" symptoms like unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, fever, unusual bleeding, severe headaches, or chest pain, indicating a need to see a doctor promptly. It's crucial to seek medical advice if rest, good nutrition, and stress management don't improve your energy levels.
In the same way, you have a set amount of energy to do all the things you want to do. So, give yourself time to rest and recharge when you need to. The five Ps – prioritising, planning ahead, pacing yourself, positioning and permission – are a way of making the most of the energy you have.
Evaluation of ME/CFS
Usually, lifestyle factors are the cause. For example, fatigue may stem from lack of sleep, dietary choices, and too much or too little exercise. Other common causes of fatigue include medication side effects, depression, allergies, viral infections, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
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.
Berocca contains many vitamins and minerals indicated for prevention and supplementation for people at risk of vitamin B, C, calcium and magnesium deficiency caused by physiological stress, fatigue, discomfort, and insomnia.
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.
Vitamin B12 is the best vitamin supplement for treating tiredness and fatigue. This essential nutrient helps your body produce energy and keeps you feeling less fatigued both physically and mentally.
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.
Many cases of tiredness are due to stress, not enough sleep, poor diet and other lifestyle factors. Try these self-help tips to restore your energy levels. If you feel you're suffering from fatigue, which is an overwhelming tiredness that isn't relieved by rest and sleep, you may have an underlying medical condition.
Individuals experiencing a deficiency often report feeling unusually tired or weak, even after adequate sleep. This symptom arises because a lack of B12 impairs the production of red blood cells, leading to fewer cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.
Energy vitamins for women can include iron, B complex vitamins, vitamin D, and magnesium. Herbal supplements that are in the category of adaptogens like ashwagandha may buffer stress and burnout and improve resilience and mood to promote energy.
The liver plays a vital role in managing the body's energy levels. Fatigue can happen if your liver isn't working properly. Some chemicals can build up in your body, making you feel tired. Your liver doesn't make the right chemicals your body needs for your metabolism to work properly.
Complex carbohydrates
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complicated disorder. It causes extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months. Symptoms worsen with physical or mental activity but don't fully improve with rest. The cause of ME/CFS is unknown, although there are many theories.