Fatigue can be described as having difficulty in initiating or maintaining activity. It is also associated with difficulty in concentration, memory and emotional stability. The term fatigue is a common presenting symptom which negatively impacts work, performance, family and social relationships.
There are many causes of fatigue which include underlying chronic medical including:
- anaemia
- psychological conditions
- as well as nutritional deficiencies.
Common nutritional deficiencies that can lead to fatigue include a lack of
- Iron
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
- and folic acid
The latter 2 can also lead to anaemia (low levels of Haemoglobin) which are required to transport and deliver oxygen to the cells around your body.
If your fatigue or your anaemia is due to a lack of Vitamin B12 in your body, taking Vitamin B complex supplements will help to increase levels and hence reduce symptoms such as fatigue. However, if you aren't lacking it in the first place, it is unlikely that taking supplements will improve your symptoms though you may experience some placebo effects.
If you are concerned about being anaemic or your Vitamin B12 levels, consult your physician to consider checking your levels with a simple blood test.
