At some point in life, we have all experienced lack of energy due to various situations such as illness, physical exertion, lack of sleep, worries, stress, boredom, among others. That feeling of tiredness, exhaustion, or lack of energy is what we call fatigue. People experiencing fatigue feel the need to rest and find it difficult to initiate and sustain any activity. This is a common symptom that can be temporary, but it can also be associated with a myriad of conditions, ranging from seasonal flu to anemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and -other hormonal imbalances, sleep apnea, anxiety, depression, myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome, among others.

Fatigue can be classified based on duration: recent (less than 1 month), prolonged (1 to 6 months), and chronic (more than 6 months). While fatigue should be considered based on its temporality and clearly other accompanying symptoms, there is an essential factor that we must not overlook: Vitamin B12. This vitamin plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and is known to be key in combating fatigue, so much so that it is referred to as the “energy vitamin.”

Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is one of the eight B-group vitamins with a fundamental role in the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of the nervous system. Deficiency in this vitamin is directly related to megaloblastic anemia, a blood disorder that causes tiredness and weakness.

To obtain adequate levels of this vitamin, humans rely on natural sources, supplements, and injections. Natural sources can be found in animal-derived foods such as fish, meat, chicken, eggs, milk, as well as some foods fortified with added vitamin B12. Among the best foods with a high content of vitamin B12 are organs (beef liver) and clams. Other plant sources of this vitamin have been found, but not in sufficient quantities, so it cannot be asserted at the moment that they are reliable sources.

Those who might not get enough vitamin B12 from their diet, include vegetarians, vegans, individuals with certain medical conditions that result in absorption problems, and older adults because they do not produce enough hydrochloric acid in the stomach to absorb this important vitamin.

In addition to diet, other good options for acquiring vitamin B12 are supplements. It can be found in supplements containing only vitamin B12, in multivitamin supplements, and in B-complex supplements. Also, vitamin B12 can be administered through an injection. We always recommend consulting a healthcare professional to determine your vitamin B12 levels and optimal dosage according to your needs.

Remember that everyone is unique. If you’re experiencing fatigue, consult with your healthcare professional to evaluate this and other symptoms. At AWC, we are committed to your well-being and have experts who can help you better understand your needs. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment for personalized advice and start your journey towards a life full of energy!