The 10 Best Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue in 2024

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Are you constantly tired, even after you get a decent night of sleep? Ongoing exhaustion can make it really hard to manage your day-to-day life. Looking for an energy booster to help you? Here are the 10 best energy supplements for people with chronic fatigue.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Before starting any new supplement, weight loss or exercise regimen, talk with your doctor.

Our Picks for Best Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue:

• Best Energy Supplement for Muscle Fatigue: Transparent Labs Stim-Booster
• Best Magnesium Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: Ritual Essential for Men
• Best Natural Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: XWerks Ashwa
• Best Energy Supplement with B12 for Chronic Fatigue: Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6
• Best On-The-Go Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: MTE Travel Packs
• Best Energy Supplement for Mental Fatigue: Kaged Mindset
• Best Energy Supplement with CoQ10: Nature Made CoQ10
• Best Energy Supplement for Focus: XWerks Ashwa
• Best Energy Supplement for Mental Clarity: Transparent Labs Shroom Stack
• Best Gummy Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: Olly Daily Energy

Best Energy Supplement for Muscle Fatigue: Transparent Labs Stim-Booster

Key features & specs

• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Unflavored
• Certifications: Third-party tested through Analytical Resource Labs
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 10 percent off
• Key ingredients: L-tyrosine, inositol-enhanced bonded arginine silicate, taurine, alpha GPC, organic caffeine
• Sweeteners: Stevia
• Best for: Pre-workout energy
• Price per serving: $0.67

Pre-workout supplements are designed to be taken shortly before a workout. They normally contain caffeine to give you an energy boost, but many of them also contain ingredients that may help promote muscle recovery after your workout. For instance, this one from Transparent Labs contains l-tyrosine, which may help your body handle the stress of exercise more effectively and support weight loss goals.

Related Post: The Best Supplements for Weight Loss

Reviewers are happy with this product, and many say that they use it for an extra energy boost even when they’re not working out.

To take it, mix one scoop with 12 to 16 ounces of water 30 minutes before a workout.

Related Post: The Best Pre-Workout Supplements

Pros:

• Third-party tested
• Highly rated by reviewers
• Can be used as a pre-workout or midday energy boost

Cons:

• Only available in Blue Raspberry or Unflavored

Best Magnesium Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: Ritual Essential for Men

Get 25% off your first month of Ritual! Code: SI25

Key features & specs

• Percent daily value: Seven percent magnesium
• Flavors: N/A
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified
• Subscription: Monthly, bundle discounts available
• Key ingredients: vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, folate, vitamin B12, magnesium, zinc, boron, omega-3, vitamin K2
• Sweeteners: N/A
• Best for: men, plant-based eaters
• Price per serving: $1.10

Magnesium is an important mineral for energy and metabolism, but it can be difficult to get enough through diet alone. Additionally, many supplements use inexpensive magnesium oxide, which isn’t well-absorbed by the body. Ritual’s Essential for Men multivitamin (and Ritual's other multivitamins) use magnesium malate, which is better absorbed by the body.

Ritual’s multivitamins are also highly rated by customers, although they are more expensive than many other multivitamins.

Ritual recommends taking two capsules daily.

Related Post: The Best Personalized Vitamins for You According to Experts

Pros:

• Contains easy-to-absorb magnesium malate
• Non-GMO verified
• Specific formulations available for men, women and men and women over 50

Cons:

• More expensive than other multivitamins

Best Natural Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: XWerks Ashwa

Key features & specs

• Nutrition facts: 15 calories, six grams carbohydrate (six grams added sugar)
• Flavors: Strawberry
• Certifications: N/A
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 5 percent discount
• Key ingredients: Ashwagandha
• Sweeteners: Glucose syrup, sugar, glucose
• Best for: People who prefer gummy vitamins
• Price per serving: $0.63

Ashwagandha is a root with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It’s an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body to adapt to various stressors. Research has found that it may help reduce anxiety and stress. In a 2021 study in the Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, researchers also found that it can help reduce physical fatigue.

These ashwagandha gummies from XWerks contain a clinically helpful dose of ashwagandha, but each serving also contains six grams of added sugars. Still, reviewers appreciate the convenience of the gummy form and say it helps them feel more relaxed.

XWerks recommends taking one or two gummies later in the day.

Related Post: The Best Sleep Aids for Restful Sleep, Including OTC and Natural Options

Pros:

• Contains a research-backed dose of ashwagandha
• Convenient gummy form
• May assist with physical fatigue

Cons:

• Contains added sugars

 Best Energy Supplement with B12 for Chronic Fatigue: Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6

Key features & specs

• Flavors: Blueberry
• Certifications: GMP Certified
• Subscription: Subscribe and save 10%
• Key ingredients: Vitamin B12, vitamin B6, folate, fulvic acid
• Sweeteners: N/A
• Best for: People looking to improve their energy level and immune system
• Price per serving: $1.60

Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 is our pick for the best energy supplement with B12 because it contains a handful of important B vitamins, plus other energy-supporting minerals. Each serving of Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 contains one milligram of vitamin B6 (63 percent DV), 1,200 micrograms of folate (300 percent DV), 1,000 micrograms of vitamin B12 (41,667 percent DV) and 100 micrograms of fulvic acid.

Vitamin B12 is a key nutrient for energy metabolism, and being low in this essential vitamin can cause fatigue and anemia. The B vitamin folate is essential for healthy cell function and is important to take during pregnancy. Vitamin B6 supports the body’s nervous system and immune system.

Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin B12 + B6 comes in liquid form. Cymbiotika suggests mixing 12 pumps into a drink of your choice.

Related Post: The Best Vitamin B Complex Supplements

Pros:

• Vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, keto
• Liquid is a good option for those who don’t like to or cannot swallow pills
• Formulated to boost energy and improve your mood

Cons:

• 1,000 micrograms is about 100 times the amount of B12 your body can absorb
• Research is mixed of the effectiveness of fulvic acid, and some health experts say high doses can have negative effects

Read our in-depth Cymbiotika Review to learn more about this supplement brand.

Best On-The-Go Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: MTE Travel Packs

Key features & specs

• Nutrition facts: 50 milligrams caffeine, 10 calories, 6 grams carbohydrate, 4 grams fiber
• Certifications: Produced and tested in a facility with certifications including NSF/NSF Sport Certified and IASC Certified
• Subscription: Monthly, 15% discount
• Key ingredients: Theacrine (as Teacrine), methylliberine (as Dynamine), green tea leaf extract (as InnovaTea), maca root powder
• Sweeteners: Stevia leaf extract and chicory root
• Best for: People who prefer drinkable supplements, those who travel frequently
• Price per serving: $3.57

MTE stands for More Than Energy, and the mixable drink powder is formulated to provide benefits including focus, stress recovery and digestive health in addition to promoting energy and vitality.

You can purchase a batch of seven travel packs for on-the-go convenience or a 30-serving bag. Mix one travel pack or scoop with 8-12 ounces of cold water or your beverage of choice and drink once daily.

MTE's energy-focused ingredients include theacrine, methylliberine and green tea extract. The all-natural formula also includes nootropics such as ashwagandha and L-Theanine that could improve cognitive function. 

Related Post: Best Supplements for Brain Fog

Pros:

• Formulated to improve energy and overall wellness
• Modest amount of caffeine (50 milligrams per serving)
• Vegan, gluten-free, compatible with keto and paleo diets

Cons:

• Expensive
• May taste too citrusy for some palates

Best Energy Supplement for Mental Fatigue: Kaged Mindset

Key features & specs

• Percent daily value: 83 percent vitamin C, 94 percent niacin, 588 percent vitamin B6, 10,417 percent vitamin B12
• Nutrition facts: Five calories, one gram carbohydrate
• Flavors: Orange Mango
• Certifications: Informed Sport
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 10 percent discount
• Key ingredients: vitamin B6, vitamin B12, alpha-GPC, L-tyrosine, acetyl L-carnitine, L-phenylalanine, ginseng root extract
• Sweeteners: Stevia
• Best for: improved attention and memory, people who are avoiding caffeine
• Price per serving: $1.48

Kaged Mindset is a nootropic supplement, meaning it provides benefits for brain health and function. Uniquely, it’s also caffeine-free—so it’s a great fit for people who want a mental boost without adding to their caffeine intake.

While some reviewers say they felt no difference, most reviewers say that Kaged Mindset provides a noticeable energy and productivity boost with no crash.

To take Kaged Mindset, mix one scoop in eight to ten ounces of cold water. Kaged also says not to take more than two scoops per day.

Related Post: The Best Tasting Protein Powders to Help You Achieve Your Fitness Goals

Pros:

• Informed Sport certified
• Caffeine-free
• Highly rated by most reviewers

Cons:

• Extremely high doses of some vitamins

Best Energy Supplement with CoQ10: Nature Made CoQ10

Key features & specs

• Flavors: N/A
• Certifications: USP tested and verified for ingredients, potency and manufacturing process
• Subscription: Subscribe and save 10%
• Key ingredients: CoQ10
• Sweeteners: N/A
• Best for: Those wanting a boost in energy, or who suffer from migraines
• Price per serving: $1.04

Nature Made CoQ10 is our pick for the best energy supplement with CoQ10 because each serving contains 200 milligrams of CoQ10 and doesn’t include any added fillers, preservatives or artificial flavors.

CoQ10, short for Coenzyme Q10, is found in almost every cell in the human body. CoQ10 can improve energy levels and boost our immune system, and is an antioxidant. Health experts say in addition to improving physical performance CoQ10 may help treat or prevent cardiovascular diseases. A 2020 study found that the anti-inflammatory properties of CoQ10 may help reduce the duration and severity of migraines, and other research indicates when paired with magnesium and riboflavin, CoQ10 may reduce migraine pain. While CoQ10 is found in a lot of foods, such as eggs, fish, chicken and nuts, some health conditions can cause deficiencies.

Nature Made recommends taking one softgel with food and water each day for best results.

Pros:

• No added colors, artificial flavors or preservatives, gluten-free
• Clinically effective dose at 200 milligrams per serving
• Subscribe and save option

Cons:

• Made using soybean oil
• CoQ10 may cause stomach upset and can lower blood sugar, so it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider before taking it

Related Post: Fight Fatigue With the Best Vitamins for Energy

Best Energy Supplement for Focus: XWerks Ashwa

Key features & specs

• Nutrition facts: 15 calories, six grams carbohydrate (six grams added sugar)
• Flavors: Strawberry
• Certifications: N/A
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 5 percent discount
• Key ingredients: Ashwagandha
• Sweeteners: Glucose syrup, sugar, glucose
• Best for: Focus, people who prefer gummy vitamins
• Price per serving: $0.63

If you’re lacking energy and can’t seem to focus, XWerks Ashwa contains 1,500 milligrams of ashwagandha, a plant-derived ingredient that is known for its ability to reduce stress and help you focus.

Research shows that this herb may help normalize cortisol levels to ease stress and anxiety, which can help you get a more restful sleep. A 2021 study found participants who took 300 milligrams daily for 90 days had improved memory and focus, sleep quality and reduced stress levels.

XWerks offers free shipping and a money-back guarantee that states you can get a refund within 30 days of the purchase date.

Pros:

• Reviews mention that the gummies are tasty and easy to chew
• Vegan-friendly
• Contains a researched-backed dose of 1,500 milligrams 

Cons:

• Contains six grams of sugar

Best Energy Supplement for Mental Clarity: Transparent Labs Shroom Stack

Key features & specs

• Flavors: N/A
• Certifications: Third-party tested by Analytical Resource Labs
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 10 percent discount
• Key ingredients: organic Lion’s Mane, organic CordycepsPrime, organic Reishi
• Sweeteners: N/A
• Best for: work or study focus
• Price per serving: $0.83

Functional mushrooms, or mushrooms that provide health benefits, have gained a huge following over the past several years. This supplement from Transparent Labs contains Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps and Reishi mushrooms—all of which have been shown to help with cognitive impairment in animal or human trials. Still, more research needs to be done before we fully understand the benefits of these mushrooms.

Reviewers say that it really works, helping them feel more focused and energetic.

Transparent Labs recommends taking three capsules each day on an empty stomach.

Related Post: Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee Review: What Does It Taste Like and Is It Good for You?

Pros:

• Highly rated by reviewers
• Third-party tested
• Reasonably priced

Cons:

• Limited evidence for functional mushrooms

Best Gummy Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue: OLLY Daily Energy

Key features & specs

• Percent of daily value: 12,500 percent vitamin B12
• Nutrition facts: 15 calories, three grams carbohydrates, two grams added sugars
• Flavors: N/A
• Certifications: NSF Certified
• Subscription: Choose frequency, 15 percent discount
• Key ingredients: Vitamin B12, goji berry, CoQ10
• Sweeteners: Glucose syrup, beet sugar
• Best for: Vegetarians, people who prefer gummies
• Price per serving: $2.14

Vitamin B12 may help prevent fatigue in people who are deficient, and this Olly supplement contains a huge dose. However, it’s important to note that this supplement isn’t vegan-friendly because it contains gelatin. Still, it’s a great fit for others who have been told they’re vitamin B12 deficient and who prefer the convenience of a gummy vitamin.

Reviewers are pleased with the taste of the supplement too, and it contains less added sugar than other gummy vitamins.

Olly recommends taking two gummies daily, with or without food.

Related Post: The 10 Best Energy Drinks To Help Crush Your Goals

Pros:

• Convenient gummy form
• NSF Certified
• Lower in added sugar than other gummies

Cons:

• Not appropriate for vegans

What Is Chronic Fatigue?

"Chronic fatigue is characterized by profound tiredness not substantially relieved by bed rest,” says Michelle Loy, MD, FAAP, integrative medicine physician with the Integrative Health and Wellbeing Center at Weill Cornell Medicine. Your fatigue may get worse with physical activity, emotional distress or activities that require deep focus, she says.

However, there is also a condition called chronic fatigue syndrome, or myalgic encephalitis (ME/CFS).

“To be diagnosed with CFS, the severe and chronic tiredness must be of new or definite onset, not lifelong, and persist for greater than six months and not be due to another medical condition,” Loy says.

However, not everyone who has chronic fatigue also has ME/CFS. Chronic fatigue can be related to several other conditions, including nutrient deficiencies or even long COVID, Loy says.

The Benefits of Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue

Many different supplements can be used for chronic fatigue, and they all work slightly differently.

Vitamin and mineral supplements may help to correct or prevent nutrient deficiencies, some of which—like iron deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency—may cause fatigue.

Stimulants like caffeine found in coffee or green tea can directly increase your alertness.

Other supplements, like functional mushrooms or adaptogenic herbs, may help optimize cellular function to improve alertness, focus or stress management.

Precautions

Many energy supplements contain caffeine. It can be helpful for a quick energy boost, but too much can cause side effects like jitters and anxiety. Excessive caffeine could even cause heart problems.

Between supplements and beverages, most people should limit their caffeine intake to 400 milligrams per day. Nursing women should limit their total caffeine intake to 300 milligrams or less per day, and pregnant women should minimize their caffeine intake.

How To Choose the Best Energy Supplement for You

One of the best ways to choose the right form of energy support for you is to evaluate supplements based on what your needs and struggles related to your energy levels currently are.

For people with ME/CFS, Loy says, “If we suspect a mitochondrial issue, [supplements with] CoQ10, carnitine, D-ribose, NADH, potassium/magnesium aspartate and certain antioxidants might be considered.”

For sleep disturbance, you may want to consider L-theanine, melatonin, magnesium or chamomile, Loy says.

And you'll want to work with your doctor to ensure that nutritional deficiencies—such as iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, zinc, or essential fatty acid deficiencies—are corrected, as these may play a contributing role in your chronic fatigue.

“There are no published trials for adaptogens such as rhodiola, ashwagandha, Reishi and Cordyceps for CFS/ME, but our patients have reported experiencing benefit from these,” she says.

What to Avoid in an Energy Supplement for Chronic Fatigue

For energy support supplements, and dietary supplements in general, it’s a good idea to avoid artificial ingredients—including artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors and fillers.

Additionally, you may also want to avoid supplements that haven’t been third-party tested or certified. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t pre-approve dietary supplements before they are sold, but third-party testing can give you peace of mind about a product. These third-party labs check that the product matches what’s on the label and that the product is pure and free of contaminants.

How We Chose the Best Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue

We chose these energy supplements first to address a number of different potential causes of fatigue, such as nutrient deficiencies and stress. Additionally, we chose supplements to address different needs—like energy for studying or working versus working out. We also included caffeinated and caffeine-free options, as well as a variety of forms—such as gummies, powders and capsules.

These supplements are also from reputable brands. These brands avoid artificial sweeteners and additives, and many of them also offer products that are third-party tested and certified.

What Vitamin Deficiencies Cause Chronic Fatigue?

Some cases of chronic fatigue or low energy levels may be related to vitamin deficiencies.

“If someone complains of fatigue,” says Loy, “it is reasonable to do some lab tests to rule out any anemia, thyroid issues, blood disorders, vitamin B12 deficiencies or vitamin D deficiencies.”

Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue FAQs

What is the root cause of chronic fatigue?

Chronic fatigue can have a number of causes, including lifestyle-related factors, nutrient deficiencies, underlying medical conditions and more. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider to get to the root of your chronic fatigue.

Why am I always tired and have no energy?

There are several possibilities, including inadequate sleep, nutrient deficiencies or medical problems. Consult your healthcare provider for further testing to help determine what may be causing your fatigue.

Is there a blood test for fatigue?

There are several different blood tests that may be conducted for people with fatigue, including vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels.

What are three types of fatigue?

The three types of fatigue are transient, cumulative and Circadian. Transient fatigue is caused by short-term, extreme sleep deprivation. Cumulative fatigue is caused by long-term inadequate sleep. Circadian sleep refers to fatigue that occurs between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Does magnesium help with fatigue?

Magnesium may help with fatigue if you’re currently magnesium deficient or not getting enough magnesium in your diet. Magnesium may also help promote better sleep, which could benefit you if your fatigue is related to sleep issues.

Takeaway: Are Energy Supplements for Chronic Fatigue Worth It?

According to the National Institutes of Health, millions of Americans suffer from chronic fatigue that causes impairments of their cognitive function, sleep, immune system, energy levels and overall well being. So you’re not alone in your search for an energy support supplement. Energy supplements may help with chronic fatigue and low energy levels in a variety of ways. However, they’re not a cure-all. 

“In my clinical practice, I find that the lifestyle pillars of nutrition, graded exercise, restorative sleep, mind body stress reduction, positive social connection, sense of purpose and avoidance of risky substances are the least invasive and most effective long-term approach. It often takes patience, but people do get better,” Loy says.

So while supplements can be helpful, it’s necessary to consider other lifestyle factors, too.

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