Deficiencies in some vitamins can cause fatigue, among other symptoms. The problem can usually be resolved by taking supplements and prevented by eating a balance, varied diet. Consult a doctor if you believe you have a vitamin deficiency. A health care professional can guide you in the development of a proper diet and help you correct the deficiency.
Lack of Vitamin C
Vitamin C deficiency can cause fatigue, along with weakness, irritability, weight loss and vague myalgias and arthralgias, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Mylagias are muscle pains; arthralgias are joint pains. Deficiency can be caused by not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables or taking supplements usually restores vitamin C levels. Men 19 and older should get 90mg a day; women 19 and older should get 75mg a day.
Lack of Thiamine
Deficiency in thiamine can cause early symptoms of fatigue, irritability, poor memory, sleep disturbances, abdominal discomfort and weight loss, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Diets consisting mainly of white flour, white sugar and other highly processed carbohydrates can lead to thiamine deficiency. Thiamine supplements can correct the deficiency. It's found in whole grain cereals, legumes, nuts, lean pork and yeast. Men should get 1.2mg a day. Women should get 1.1mg a day.
Lack of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, which causes fatigue, paleness and weakness, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. It can also cause shortness of breath, dizziness and a rapid heart rate.Vegans may be at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency because it's found in animal products. High doses of supplements restore vitamin B12 levels. Adults should get 2.4mcg per day.
Folate Deficiency
Folate deficiency can also cause anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue and other symptoms. This deficiency can cause a red and sore tongue, a reduced sense of taste, weight loss and depression, states the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. The deficiency is common, often resulting from inadequate intake. Deficiency treatment requires a supplement. Get folate from leafy green vegetables, fruits and dried beans and peas. Adults should get 400mcg a day.
Lack of Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 deficiency can also cause anemia along with dermatitis, or skin inflammation; glossitis, or a sore tongue; depression, confusion and convulsions, according to the National Institutes of Health. Deficiency is rare but can occur in those with poor-quality diets. Vitamin B6 is found in fortified cereals, beans, meat, poultry, fish and some fruits and vegetables. Men and women 19 to 50 need 1.3mg a day. Men older than 50 need 1.7mg; women older than 50 need 1.5mg.
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