Fatigue
Persistent lack of energy affecting daily function. Distinct from normal tiredness.
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
Fatigue lasting >2 weeks, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, shortness of breath
Lifestyle factors
Poor sleep hygiene, sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, excessive caffeine, dehydration
Nutritional factors
Iron deficiency, B12 deficiency, low vitamin D, inadequate caloric intake, high refined sugar diet
Possible medical causes
Anaemia, hypothyroidism, sleep apnoea, diabetes, depression
Next steps
Consult GP if fatigue persists beyond 2 weeks or is accompanied by red-flag symptoms
Related nutrients (5)
Primary nutrient associated with fatigue
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (6.4 mg iron per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (6.6 mg iron per cup cooked)
B12 deficiency is a common reversible cause of fatigue
Food sources: Eggs (whole, boiled) (2.6 mcg B12 per 2 eggs)
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to persistent fatigue and low energy
Food sources: Salmon (grilled) (~570 IU (14 mcg) vitamin D per 100g grilled fillet), Eggs (whole, boiled) (~41 IU (1 mcg) vitamin D per egg, mostly in the yolk), Fortified oat milk (~100 IU (2.5 mcg) vitamin D per cup, fortified)
Folate deficiency is a common contributor to fatigue and low red blood cell production
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (~263 mcg folate DFE per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (~358 mcg folate DFE per cup cooked)
CoQ10 supports mitochondrial energy production; statin medications can deplete levels and contribute to fatigue
Food sources: Salmon (grilled) (~0.9 mg CoQ10 per 140g fillet (food sources are generally low; organ meats are the richest dietary source))
Supplement categories (4)
Iron supplementation if deficiency confirmed by blood test
Cautions: Do not supplement without testing; haemochromatosis contraindication; keep away from children
Supports energy metabolism, particularly with poor dietary variety or high stress
Cautions: High-dose B6 above 100 mg/day long-term is linked to nerve symptoms — check the product dose
May ease fatigue linked to statin-related CoQ10 depletion
Cautions: Take with a fat-containing meal for better absorption
Corrects B12-deficiency-related fatigue once confirmed by blood tests
Cautions: Test levels before high-dose supplementation if the underlying cause is unclear
Related symptoms
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.