Vitamins for tiredness: a clear, GP-led guide for patients
Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common reasons people book a GP appointment. It affects work, relationships, motivation and overall wellbeing. Many patients ask whether vitamins for tiredness can help, or whether supplements and injections are worth considering when fatigue does not improve with rest.
At OneMedicine, we see patients every week who are struggling with ongoing tiredness. This article explains the role of vitamins for fatigue and tiredness, when vitamin deficiency may be involved, and how we assess and treat fatigue safely and properly in a private GP setting.
This guide is written for patients, using clear and practical language, but it is grounded in medical evidence and over 20 years of clinical experience.
Why tiredness is so common
Tiredness is not a diagnosis on its own. It is a symptom that can have many causes, including:
- poor sleep quality
- stress or burnout
- nutritional deficiencies
- hormonal changes
- infections or inflammation
- heart or metabolic conditions
This is why taking random supplements without understanding the cause often leads to frustration.
When patients ask about vitamins for tiredness, our first step is always to understand why they are tired.
You can learn more about our overall approach to care at OneMedicine.
The difference between tiredness and fatigue
Although people often use the words interchangeably, tiredness and fatigue are slightly different.
- Tiredness usually improves with rest or sleep
- Fatigue is a deeper, persistent lack of energy that does not improve easily
When patients search for vitamins for fatigue and tiredness, they are often describing fatigue rather than simple tiredness. This distinction matters because persistent fatigue needs proper assessment.
Can vitamin deficiencies cause tiredness?
Yes, vitamin deficiencies are a well-recognised cause of tiredness and fatigue. However, they are not the only cause.
Some of the most relevant vitamins linked to energy levels include:
- vitamin B12
- vitamin D
- vitamin C
- B-complex vitamins
Deficiency can occur due to diet, absorption issues, lifestyle, medications or underlying medical conditions.
Vitamin B12 and tiredness
Vitamin B12 is one of the most common deficiencies we see in patients with fatigue.
Low B12 levels can cause:
- persistent tiredness
- brain fog
- low mood
- tingling or numbness
- reduced concentration
In some cases, oral supplements are not enough, particularly if absorption is poor.
At OneMedicine, vitamin B12 deficiency can be treated with vitamin B12 injection when clinically appropriate.
This is one of the most effective vitamins for tiredness when deficiency is confirmed.
Vitamin D and low energy
Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common in the UK, especially during autumn and winter.
Low vitamin D levels are associated with:
- fatigue
- muscle aches
- low mood
- reduced immunity
For some patients, oral supplements are slow to correct deficiency. In these cases, a vitamin D shot may be considered as part of a wider treatment plan.
Vitamin D is often overlooked when discussing vitamins for fatigue and tiredness, but it plays an important role in muscle and immune function.
Vitamin C and energy levels
Vitamin C is best known for immune support, but it also contributes to energy production by supporting iron absorption and reducing oxidative stress.
Low levels may contribute to:
- tiredness
- slow recovery
- frequent infections
In some patients, intravenous vitamin C is used as part of a broader fatigue or immune support programme.
B-complex vitamins and energy metabolism
B-complex vitamins (including B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6) play a role in converting food into energy.
Deficiency may lead to:
- low energy
- irritability
- difficulty concentrating
This is why balanced B-vitamin support is often included in fatigue treatment protocols rather than focusing on a single vitamin alone.
When vitamins alone are not enough
It is important to be honest: not all tiredness is caused by vitamin deficiency.
Persistent fatigue may be linked to:
- thyroid disorders
- anaemia
- heart health issues
- sleep apnoea
- long-term stress or anxiety
Dr Ibrar Ahmed, lead GP at OneMedicine, has over 20 years of experience in medicine and a specialist interest in heart health. This background is particularly important when fatigue may be linked to cardiovascular risk factors.
This is why assessment matters before recommending vitamins for tiredness.
The role of blood tests
Blood tests help identify whether tiredness is linked to vitamin deficiency or another medical cause.
At OneMedicine, blood tests can assess:
- vitamin B12
- vitamin D
- iron levels
- inflammation markers
- thyroid function
This allows treatment to be targeted and safe, rather than based on guesswork.
IV infusions and fatigue support
For some patients, IV therapy is considered as part of a personalised plan.
Options include:
- Myers’ Formula – a blend of vitamins and minerals
- The Energiser – designed to support energy and mental clarity
- Immune system uplift – useful when fatigue is linked to frequent illness
These treatments are not a replacement for medical diagnosis but can support recovery when used appropriately.
NAD therapy and fatigue
NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) plays a role in cellular energy production.
In selected patients, NAD infusion or NAD athlete and sport infusion may be discussed as part of fatigue or performance optimisation.
This is a more specialised option and is always assessed carefully.
Lifestyle factors still matter
Even the best vitamins for fatigue and tiredness will not compensate for:
- chronic poor sleep
- high alcohol intake
- unmanaged stress
- lack of movement
At OneMedicine, we always look at the whole picture, not just lab results.
Why personalised care matters
One person’s fatigue may be driven by vitamin deficiency. Another’s may be related to stress, heart health or hormonal changes.
This is why off-the-shelf supplements rarely provide lasting benefit.
Personalised assessment allows us to:
- identify the real cause
- avoid unnecessary treatment
- improve outcomes
Why patients trust OneMedicine
- Dr Ibrar Ahmed has over two decades of clinical experience across hospital and primary care medicine.
- Specialist interest in heart health ensures fatigue is assessed with appropriate medical depth.
- Care is evidence-based, with treatments selected for clear clinical reasons.
- Patients receive honest advice, clear explanations and no unnecessary interventions.
You can explore our full range of services here: OneMedicine.
Final thoughts
Searching for vitamins for tiredness or vitamins for fatigue and tiredness is often a sign that something deeper is going on. Vitamins can play an important role, but they work best when used as part of a proper medical assessment.
At OneMedicine, we combine experience, evidence and personalised care to help patients regain energy safely and effectively. Whether that involves blood tests, vitamin injections, IV infusions or broader health support, the goal is always the same: to understand the cause and treat it properly.
Frequently questions our patients ask
Do vitamins really help with tiredness?
Yes, if tiredness is caused by deficiency. If not, vitamins alone may not help.
What are the best vitamins for tiredness?
Vitamin B12 and vitamin D are common contributors, but testing is important.
How long does it take to feel better after vitamin treatment?
Some patients notice improvement within days; others take several weeks.
Are IV vitamin infusions safe?
When medically assessed and supervised, they are generally safe for suitable patients.
Should I test before taking supplements?
Yes. Testing helps avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatment.
