Tiredness is often a normal response to over-work, stress or boredom, and most people experience it from time to time. However, in some cases it might be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as depression, anemia, thyroid problems or a sleep disorder. Getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids might help to boost energy levels, MedlinePlus notes. Certain dietary and herbal supplements might also help to improve energy levels, but get medical advice before using them.
American Ginseng
American ginseng is an herb sometimes used to treat respiratory tract infections and as an immune system booster. However, it is most commonly used to alleviate stress and as a general health tonic. The results of a clinical study published in the February 2010 issue of "Support Care in Cancer" show that American ginseng might help to improve cancer-related fatigue, although the authors add that further studies are needed.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in several biological processes, including red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that vitamin B-12 injections might help to improve the energy levels of people deficient in this vitamin, but adds that it is unclear whether it can alleviate chronic fatigue syndrome. Found in a variety of foods including milk, chicken, trout and ham, vitamin B-12 is also available over-the-counter as a dietary supplement. However, oral supplements may not be as effective as vitamin B-12 injections. Consult your doctor about getting vitamin B-12 injections and use them under medical supervision only.
Magnesium
Magnesium is vital for good health and is found in every organ of the body, and might play a role in the prevention and treatment of several conditions, including asthma, diabetes and migraine. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that it also contributes to energy production and is sometimes administered in combination with malic acid to help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. Rich sources of magnesium include legumes, green leafy vegetables, Brazil nuts, whole-wheat flour, spinach and bananas. It is also available as a dietary supplements in capsules and tablets. Get medical advice before taking supplemental magnesium.
Safety Considerations
Vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements may cause side effects or interact with other medicines. For example, taking too much magnesium causes diarrhea and might alter your blood pressure. American ginseng may also cause blood pressure changes and might also lead to insomnia, nervousness and headache. It might also reduce the effectiveness of certain medications including the anti-coagulant drug, warfarin. Get medical advice before taking any new supplements.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- MedlinePlus: Ginseng, American
- "Supportive Care in Cancer"; Pilot Study of Panax Quinquefolius (American Ginseng) to Improve Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Dose-Finding Evaluation: NCCTG trial N03CA; D.L. Barton, et al.; February 2010
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B12
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Magnesium
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