What vitamin deficiency causes tiredness
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Vitamin Deficiency and Tiredness: Key Insights
Vitamin D Deficiency and Fatigue
Prevalence and Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread issue affecting approximately 1 billion people globally, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Severe deficiency in vitamin D (<10 ng/ml) can lead to significant fatigue, personality changes, depression-like symptoms, chronic sleep disorders, and immune dysfunction 3. This deficiency is often overlooked by both patients and healthcare providers, despite its substantial impact on energy levels and overall well-being 3.
Clinical Evidence Linking Vitamin D and Fatigue
Several studies have demonstrated a direct link between low vitamin D levels and fatigue. For instance, older patients with fatigue were found to have significantly lower levels of vitamin D compared to those without fatigue. This correlation was evident even after accounting for other blood parameters 1. Additionally, a double-blind placebo-controlled trial showed that vitamin D supplementation significantly improved fatigue in individuals with low vitamin D levels, highlighting the potential benefits of addressing this deficiency 10.
Mechanisms of Vitamin D in Reducing Fatigue
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including immune regulation and muscle function. Deficiency in vitamin D can lead to impaired immune responses and chronic inflammation, which are associated with persistent fatigue 6. Moreover, vitamin D's influence on inflammatory pathways, such as the reduction of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and prostaglandin D2, may help alleviate fatigue by improving central nervous system function 8.
Other Vitamins and Minerals Associated with Fatigue
B Vitamins and Fatigue
B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for energy metabolism and neurological function. Deficiencies in B vitamins can lead to symptoms of fatigue, cognitive impairment, and psychological distress. A narrative review highlighted the critical roles of B vitamins in energy-yielding metabolism and their potential impact on mental and physical fatigue 2. However, a systematic review and meta-analysis found limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of B12 supplementation in improving fatigue in the absence of overt deficiency or advanced neurological disorders 9.
Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc
Iron, magnesium, and zinc are also vital for maintaining energy levels and cognitive function. Deficiencies in these minerals can contribute to fatigue and reduced cognitive performance. The biochemical roles of these micronutrients in oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and neuronal function underscore their importance in preventing fatigue 2. However, the evidence linking these deficiencies directly to fatigue symptoms remains inconsistent, and further research is needed to establish clear associations 7.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is a well-documented cause of fatigue, with numerous studies highlighting its significant impact on energy levels and overall health. Addressing vitamin D deficiency through supplementation can lead to marked improvements in fatigue symptoms. While other vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc, are also important for energy metabolism, the evidence linking their deficiencies to fatigue is less consistent. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to consider vitamin D levels in patients presenting with unexplained fatigue and to explore other potential deficiencies on a case-by-case basis.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Decrease in Serum Vitamin D Level of Older Patients with Fatigue
Lower vitamin D levels are directly linked to fatigue in older individuals, suggesting implications for diagnosis and management of these patients.
Observational Study
Very Rigorous JournalVitamins and Minerals for Energy, Fatigue and Cognition: A Narrative Review of the Biochemical and Clinical Evidence
B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and zinc play crucial roles in cognitive and psychological processes, and their deficiency can lead to fatigue and mental symptoms.
Literature ReviewVery Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedVitamin D Deficiency Presenting as Fatigue.
Vitamin D deficiency can cause fatigue and other symptoms, but treatment with oral cholecalciferol can improve all symptoms.
Case ReportVitamin D status in chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis: a cohort study from the North-West of England
Low serum concentrations of total 25(OH)D do not appear to be a contributing factor to the level of fatigue in chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis patients.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalInvestigating causality in the association between vitamin D status and self-reported tiredness
Low vitamin D levels are not causally linked to fatigue, and vitamin D supplementation is not likely to prevent fatigue in the general population.
Observational StudyRigorous JournalVitamin and mineral status in chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Vitamin E levels are lower in chronic fatigue syndrome patients compared to controls, but no consistent link to clinical parameters or effectiveness of supplementation was found.
Meta-AnalysisRigorous JournalVitamin D deficiency and fatigue: an unusual presentation
Vitamin D supplementation can resolve daytime fatigue in patients with low levels, suggesting that vitamin D deficiency should be considered in cases of unexplained fatigue and nonspecific musculoskeletal pain.
Case ReportEffects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Depressive Symptoms, and Fatigue: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression
Vitamin B12 supplementation is likely ineffective for improving cognitive function and depressive symptoms in patients without advanced neurological disorders.
Meta-AnalysisVery Rigorous JournalEffect of vitamin D3 on self-perceived fatigue
Vitamin D treatment significantly improved fatigue in otherwise healthy individuals with vitamin D deficiency, correlated with increased serum 25(OH)D levels.
RCTVery Rigorous Journal