B12, folate supplements may be key to tackling chronic fatigue

Fatigue is something that everyone experiences from time to time, but for some people, it is not a transient symptom, but a chronic condition that affects their daily functioning. Chronic fatigue, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, may affect around 3.3 million Americans, interfering with work, school and social life, as well as day-to-day tasks.

Experts believe that chronic fatigue may sometimes follow a viral infection, or could occur after extreme physical stress, such as major surgery. It is 2–4 times more likely to occur in women than men.

A new study from Japan suggests that diet may influence energy levels and motivation. The research, published in Nutrients , found that people who had raised levels of a biomarker, homocysteine , indicating deficiency in vitamins B9 (folate) and B12, were more likely to experience fatigue or lack of motivation than those who had adequate levels.

Although the cross-sectional analysis cannot prove causation, researchers suggest that further studies into links between diet and fatigue should be carried out to verify their findings.