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Top 7 Vitamins to Beat Tiredness and Boost Your Energy Naturally

Top 7 Vitamins to Beat Tiredness and Boost Your Energy Naturally

Feeling wiped out even after what seems like a decent night’s sleep? You’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common complaints among Australians, and it goes well beyond the occasional late night. Surveys from the Sleep Health Foundation suggest that around 40% of Australian adults regularly experience inadequate sleep, and poor sleep is directly tied to low energy, reduced concentration, and higher stress levels. Add in demanding work schedules, family responsibilities, and diets that often miss key nutrients, and it’s no wonder so many people feel they’re running on empty.

While lifestyle factors like sleep hygiene, hydration, and stress management form the backbone of sustainable energy, vitamins and minerals also play a critical role. Deficiencies in nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, magnesium, and B vitamins are strongly associated with tiredness, brain fog, and poor physical endurance. Left unaddressed, these gaps can make it harder for your body to recover, regulate mood, and perform daily tasks. For example, low iron is a leading cause of fatigue, particularly in women, while inadequate vitamin D remains surprisingly common in Australia despite our sunny climate—especially during the cooler months when sun exposure is limited.

The good news? Addressing nutrient shortfalls can make a noticeable difference. Strategic use of supplements, alongside whole food sources, helps restore balance, improve resilience to stress, and support better sleep quality. From vitamin B12 for energy metabolism to magnesium for relaxation and recovery, the right combination may help you feel more vibrant and productive.

This guide will walk you through the best vitamins for tiredness and fatigue in Australia, when to consider supplementation, and how to align nutrients with lifestyle foundations like diet, sleep, and stress management. By combining evidence-based nutrition with practical everyday strategies, you can start moving towards consistent, natural energy—and leave the mid-afternoon slump behind.

“Think ‘food first, supplements second’. Use vitamins to close gaps consistently for 4–8 weeks, then review what actually changed.”

Quick picks by goal: B12 (energy & nerves), Iron (oxygen transport), Vitamin D (mood & muscle), Magnesium (sleep & relaxation), CoQ10 (cell energy), Vitamin C (antioxidant + iron absorption), B-complex (carb→energy).

Illustration of seven vitamins that help reduce tiredness and support energy.

Best vitamins & minerals for fatigue (AU)

1) Vitamin B12 — the energy cofactor

Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in converting the carbohydrates, fats and proteins you eat into ATP, the cellular fuel your body relies on for energy. It also supports red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system, which is why low B12 often shows up as fatigue, weakness, brain fog, irritability, or tingling in the hands and feet. Vegans and vegetarians are particularly at risk, as B12 is mainly found in animal products.

Tip: Plant-based Australians should consider regular B12 through fortified foods or supplements, as deficiency can take years to appear but leave lasting impacts.

2) Iron — oxygen for energy

Iron is essential for building haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. Without enough iron, tissues and muscles are starved of oxygen, leading to persistent tiredness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and restless legs. Women of reproductive age are especially vulnerable due to menstrual losses. Always confirm deficiency with a blood test before supplementing, as too much iron can be harmful.

Absorption: Enhance plant-based iron with vitamin C (citrus, kiwi, capsicum) and avoid taking iron with coffee, tea, or calcium supplements within two hours.

3) Vitamin D — sunshine support

Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin” because our skin produces it in response to UV exposure. Yet despite Australia’s sunny climate, deficiencies remain common, particularly in winter or for people working indoors. Low vitamin D can contribute to fatigue, muscle weakness, and low mood, making day-to-day energy management harder. Supplements are a safe way to top up if levels are low.

4) Magnesium — for calm and better sleep

Magnesium is involved in more than 300 biochemical processes, many directly tied to energy metabolism, muscle relaxation, and nervous system balance. Low levels can cause muscle cramps, tension, poor sleep quality, and chronic tiredness. For many Australians, stress, processed diets, and soil depletion reduce magnesium intake. Supplementing can help improve rest and recovery, which translates into better daytime energy.

Timing: Many take magnesium at night; start low if you’re sensitive.

5) Coenzyme Q10 — the cell “charger”

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is not a vitamin but a vital nutrient located in your mitochondria, the “power plants” of your cells. It’s needed to produce ATP, the molecule that fuels every bodily process. Natural CoQ10 levels decline with age and can be lowered by cholesterol-lowering medications (statins). Low levels are linked with fatigue, muscle weakness, and reduced exercise capacity. Supplementation may help restore energy at a cellular level.

6) Vitamin C — defence + iron helper

Most Australians know vitamin C for its immune benefits, but it’s equally important in reducing oxidative stress and fighting fatigue. Vitamin C helps recycle antioxidants in the body and supports collagen production, essential for tissue repair. Critically, it enhances the absorption of non-haem iron from plant foods, making it particularly valuable for vegetarians and vegans managing energy levels. Low vitamin C intake can increase feelings of tiredness and leave you more prone to illness.

7) B-complex — the everyday engine

The family of B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, folate, and B12) work synergistically to support energy metabolism. They help the body turn carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into usable energy, while also supporting brain function, nerve health, and stress resilience. Modern stress, caffeine, alcohol, and processed diets can all deplete B vitamins quickly. A high-quality B-complex can provide daily coverage, especially for busy Australians who need sustained energy and mental clarity.

Quick compare: what helps which fatigue?

Nutrient Where it helps Best for Badge
B12 Nerve health, energy production Vegans/vegetarians, low B12 on labs Energy Focus
Iron Oxygen transport (haemoglobin) Medically diagnosed iron deficiency Check Labs First
Vitamin D Mood, muscle function Indoor workers, winter AU Winter
Magnesium Sleep quality, muscle relaxation Night-time restlessness, cramps Better Sleep
CoQ10 Mitochondrial energy (ATP) Ageing, statin users (see GP) Cell Energy
Vitamin C Antioxidant, iron absorption Plant-based iron eaters Iron Helper
B-complex Carb → energy, stress support Busy/stressed lifestyles Daily Driver

How to use safely (AU)

GP/pharmacist checklist:
  • Confirm iron deficiency with bloods before taking iron.
  • Discuss medicines (thyroid, antibiotics, PPIs, statins) and timing gaps.
  • Match dose to label; reassess after 4–8 weeks for real-world changes.
  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: get personalised advice.


FAQ

What is the best vitamin for tiredness and fatigue?

There’s no single best for everyone. Common gaps linked with fatigue include B12, iron and vitamin D. If sleep is poor or muscles are tight, magnesium may help indirectly. Start with food first, then use targeted supplements for 4–8 weeks. Get bloods before taking iron.

What vitamin am I lacking if I feel fatigued?

Fatigue can relate to low B12, vitamin D or iron, but stress, sleep debt and low calories are also common causes. Don’t self-diagnose—ask your GP for blood tests to confirm any deficiency and dosage.

What can I take for lack of energy?

Prioritise meals with protein, whole grains and produce; improve sleep hygiene; hydrate. For supplements, consider B12/B-complex, vitamin D (if low), magnesium for sleep quality, and CoQ10 for cellular energy. Iron only with confirmed deficiency.

Should I take B12 if I’m always tired?

B12 may help if you’re low—more likely for vegans/vegetarians or those with absorption issues. Check levels first. A B-complex can cover broader gaps while you wait for results. See your GP if fatigue is persistent or unexplained.

Can you take B12 and vitamin D together?

Yes. They’re commonly taken together with food. The bigger caution is timing around medicines (e.g., thyroid or some antibiotics). If you take prescription medicines or are pregnant/breastfeeding, seek personalised guidance.

Why am I so tired and have no energy?

Beyond nutrient gaps, common drivers are poor sleep, stress, low iron, under-eating, dehydration, illness and low mood. Start with sleep, food quality and hydration; book a GP review if symptoms persist or worsen.

What supplement gives the most energy?

It depends on the cause. B12 helps if you’re low; iron helps only with confirmed deficiency; vitamin D supports mood/muscle when low; CoQ10 supports mitochondrial energy; magnesium may improve sleep quality. Match the supplement to your need.

What does B12 fatigue feel like?

People report persistent tiredness, weakness, poor concentration, breathlessness on exertion, pale skin, pins and needles or a sore tongue. These signs are non-specific—blood tests are needed to confirm B12 deficiency.

What are the negatives to taking B12?

B12 is generally well tolerated. Rarely, mild digestive upset or acne-like breakouts occur. High doses can mask other issues if taken without testing. If you take medicines or have a medical condition, check with your GP.

Does magnesium give you energy?

Indirectly. Magnesium supports hundreds of reactions and may improve sleep quality and reduce muscle tension, which can help daytime energy. Glycinate is often chosen for calm; citrate for regularity. Start low and assess over 2–4 weeks.

What does vitamin D3 do?

Vitamin D3 supports bone, muscle and immune function, and low levels are linked with low mood and fatigue. Many Australians run low in winter or with limited sun. Test first and supplement as advised.

What food is highest in B12?

Rich sources include liver, clams, sardines and other seafood; moderate amounts are in eggs and dairy. Fortified plant milks and nutritional yeast help plant-based Australians meet daily needs.

Can I take magnesium and B12 together?

Yes—there’s no typical interaction. Many people take B-complex in the day and magnesium in the evening. If you’re on prescription medicines, confirm timing with your pharmacist or GP.

Can I take five different vitamins at once?

You can, but more isn’t always better. Overlapping products can exceed safe intakes. Choose a simple stack aligned to your goals, follow label directions, and review after 4–8 weeks. Seek advice if pregnant, breastfeeding or on medicines.

What is the best women’s vitamin for energy?

Needs vary by age and life stage. A balanced B-complex, vitamin D (if low) and magnesium for sleep/tension are common picks; iron only when tested low. A women’s multi can be convenient but check dosages suit you.

Is B6 or B12 better for energy?

They work differently. B12 is key for red blood cells and nerve function; B6 supports energy metabolism and neurotransmitters. Many Australians use a B-complex to cover both while diet is improved.

Where can I buy quality vitamins in Australia?

Browse our curated range of trusted brands in the Vitamins & Minerals collection. We prioritise clear labels and evidence-aligned products suited to Australian needs.

Conclusion: a simple plan to beat daily fatigue

Beating everyday tiredness starts with the basics: consistent meals built around whole foods, prioritising sleep, moving your body, and managing stress. Use supplements to fill genuine gaps—not as a replacement for the fundamentals. If you’re plant-based or rarely eat animal foods, a B12 or B-complex can be a smart baseline. If your energy issues track with low iron symptoms, get bloods before taking iron and follow your GP’s plan. For restless nights or muscle tightness, magnesium—especially glycinate—can support better sleep, while vitamin D may help if you have limited sun exposure. As we age, CoQ10 can complement training and day-to-day vitality. Start low, stay consistent for 4–8 weeks, and measure what matters to you (sleep quality, afternoon energy, workout recovery). From there, keep what works, drop what doesn’t, and revisit your routine each season. When you’re ready, explore our curated Australian range to build a simple, sustainable energy stack.

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About this article

Dr. Matt McDougall
Dr. Matt McDougall PhD, RN
Founder, Eco Traders Australia

A clinician with a PhD from the School of Maths, Science & Technology and training as a Registered Nurse, he’s dedicated to translating research into practical steps for better health. His work focuses on men’s health, mental wellbeing, and the gut–brain connection — exploring how nutrition, movement, and mindset influence resilience and recovery. He writes about evidence-based, natural approaches to managing stress, improving mood, and supporting long-term vitality.