Experts estimate that of all of the people who are fatigued enough to see a doctor about it, only 1 in 30 has chronic fatigue syndrome. Finally, there are a number of vitamins and minerals that play roles in helping to keep you fatigue-free. The Usual Suspect One of the most common causes of fatigue is iron -deficiency anemia, says Dr. Lark. She estimates that 20 percent of women who menstruate are anemic because of the blood they lose each month. Women with heavy menstrual flow have the greatest risk, she adds.
Anemia is also common among teenagers, pregnant women and women nearing menopause.
If you suspect that you may be anemic, the first step is to make an appointment with your doctor, says Dr. Lark. It s the only way to find out for sure. But even if you re not anemic, a slight iron deficiency can affect your energy level, and you may benefit from getting more iron in your diet, says Dr. Lark. Experts who recommend iron to combat fatigue generally suggest between 12 and 15 milligrams a day. The best source of iron is animal products, so go for lean meats, cooked oysters and clams.