New Delhi, 04 August 2025: Are you constantly feeling exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep? Struggling to make it through the day with low energy or brain fog? You’re not alone. While stress, lack of sleep, or a sedentary lifestyle are common culprits, there’s another overlooked factor: hidden nutrient deficiencies.
Even if you’re eating a seemingly balanced diet, you may still fall short on some vital vitamins and minerals — and the result could be unexplained fatigue.
Here are 8 nutrient deficiencies that could be silently stealing your energy, and what to do about them.
1. Iron Deficiency
Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Without enough iron, your cells don’t get the oxygen they need — resulting in fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Symptoms:
- Extreme tiredness
- Pale skin
- Cold hands and feet
- Frequent headaches
Who’s at risk?
Women (especially during menstruation), vegetarians, and people with digestive disorders like celiac or IBD.
Fix it:
Add more iron-rich foods such as spinach, lentils, red meat, tofu, and fortified cereals. Pair with vitamin C (like citrus fruits) to enhance absorption.
2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 helps keep your nerve and blood cells healthy and is crucial for energy metabolism. A deficiency can cause tiredness, mental fog, and even depression.
Symptoms:
- Constant fatigue
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Memory issues
- Mood swings
Who’s at risk?
Vegans and vegetarians (since B12 is mostly found in animal products), people over 50, and those on long-term antacid medications.
Fix it:
Include eggs, dairy, fish, poultry, or fortified plant-based milk in your diet. In severe cases, B12 injections or supplements may be necessary.
3. Vitamin D Deficiency
Known as the “sunshine vitamin”, Vitamin D supports immune function, bone health, and energy levels. Lack of it can lead to chronic fatigue, joint pain, and low mood.
Symptoms:
- Muscle weakness
- Frequent infections
- Low energy
- Mood disorders
Who’s at risk?
People who stay indoors, live in areas with little sunlight, or have darker skin tones.
Fix it:
Get 10–30 minutes of direct sunlight a few times a week. Eat fatty fish, fortified dairy, egg yolks, or take a vitamin D3 supplement if needed.
4. Magnesium Deficiency
Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body — many related to energy production and nervous system regulation.
Symptoms:
- Constant tiredness
- Muscle cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Anxiety or irritability
Who’s at risk?
People who consume lots of processed foods, alcohol, or those with digestive issues.
Fix it:
Include nuts, seeds, leafy greens, bananas, avocados, and whole grains in your diet.
5. Folate (Vitamin B9) Deficiency
Folate helps your body form DNA and red blood cells. A deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness, and brain fog, especially in pregnant women.
Symptoms:
- Weakness
- Poor concentration
- Mouth ulcers
- Irritability
Who’s at risk?
Pregnant women, alcoholics, and individuals on medications like methotrexate or certain anticonvulsants.
Fix it:
Eat more legumes, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals. Pregnant women should take a prenatal supplement with folic acid.
6. Potassium Deficiency
Potassium helps muscles contract, regulates fluid balance, and supports normal nerve function. Low levels can make you feel sluggish and weak.
Symptoms:
- Muscle fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- Constipation
- Mood changes
Who’s at risk?
People on diuretics, those with chronic diarrhea or vomiting, and those who sweat excessively.
Fix it:
Eat bananas, sweet potatoes, beans, spinach, and coconut water to boost your potassium levels.
7. Iodine Deficiency
Iodine is crucial for healthy thyroid function. Without it, your thyroid hormone production dips, slowing your metabolism and energy levels.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Dry skin
- Sensitivity to cold
Who’s at risk?
People who avoid iodized salt or follow a very restrictive diet.
Fix it:
Consume iodized salt, seaweed, dairy products, and fish. Supplements should only be used under medical guidance.
8. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Deficiency
CoQ10 is a compound your body makes that helps generate energy in your cells. As you age, your levels naturally decline, leading to sluggishness and poor endurance.
Symptoms:
- Low stamina
- Muscle fatigue
- Brain fog
- Weakness
Who’s at risk?
Older adults and people taking statins or blood pressure medications.
Fix it:
Include organ meats, fatty fish, peanuts, and CoQ10 supplements if advised by your doctor.
Don’t Ignore Your Fatigue
Fatigue is not just a side effect of a busy life — it can be your body’s way of telling you something deeper is wrong. If you’re always tired, it’s time to dig into the root causes.
Routine blood tests can reveal deficiencies, and a registered nutritionist or doctor can help you balance your diet and restore your energy levels naturally.
Addressing hidden nutrient deficiencies is a powerful, science-backed way to beat fatigue and regain your vitality. Start by eating a variety of whole foods, staying hydrated, and listening to your body’s signals. Small changes today can lead to big improvements in how you feel tomorrow.
