As interest in health and wellness surges globally, the humble multivitamin finds itself back in the spotlight—this time, not just as a childhood habit, but as a possible remedy for fatigue and gaps in nutrition. A recent article in Vogue, “The Daily Multivitamin That Remedied One Vogue Writer’s Fatigue,” brings renewed attention to the daily struggles of persistent tiredness, especially among those with dietary restrictions like vegetarians. The experience of the Vogue contributor—who overcame long-term fatigue after addressing a vitamin B12 deficiency with Thorne’s Basic Nutrients supplement—echoes questions many Thais are asking: Can a simple multivitamin change how we feel? Or is the supplement industry still promising more than it can deliver?
Fatigue is a nearly universal complaint; in Thailand, as elsewhere, busy lives, dietary changes, and growing wellness trends fuel a booming supplement market. For Thai readers, the question is not just about personal energy. It touches on deeper issues: Are supplements a necessary part of modern health, or a costly crutch? And which groups truly benefit?
According to the Vogue article, the writer—a vegetarian for nearly two decades—was suffering an undiagnosed vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to tiredness, pale skin, and brain fog. B12 is critical for energy, nerve function, and red blood cell production, but it is found almost exclusively in animal products. Registered dietitians cited in the article note that vegetarians, vegans, and those with certain health conditions are especially susceptible to B12 deficiency, corroborated by further studies showing that supplementation remains the most reliable way to bridge nutritional gaps for these populations (Vogue).
“A B12 deficiency might cause symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, brain fog, or changes in mood,” explains a quoted registered dietitian nutritionist. While the best way to get vitamins is from a diverse, nutrient-rich diet, experts note that “any time you have a dietary restriction, there is a risk of missing out on the nutrients that specific food provides.” The Vogue piece stands out for directly linking consistent, doctor-guided supplementation with tangible improvements in daily life, including more energy and clearer thinking after six weeks on the Thorne formula.
But the scientific community remains measured. A 2024 population-based cross-sectional study published in ScienceDirect found “no consistent association between [vitamin and mineral supplement] consumption and fatigue” in the general population (ScienceDirect). Similarly, Johns Hopkins researchers caution that for most healthy adults, there is “no proof of benefit” from routine multivitamin use (Johns Hopkins Medicine). However, multivitamins may slow cognitive decline, according to a 2024 randomized controlled trial, hinting that certain groups—especially older adults—could see benefit (Harvard Health). Meanwhile, the US National Institutes of Health finds that daily multivitamin use in healthy adults does not correlate with lower mortality, reinforcing that supplements are not a replacement for a good diet or lifestyle (NIH).
Understanding the Thai context is key. Multivitamin use is common, with one study showing that 35% of surveyed Thais regularly took multivitamins and 76% used some form of vitamin supplement—driven by concerns about diet, busy lifestyles, and marketing from an industry growing over 20% annually (PubMed; ProQuest). Thailand’s “wellness” culture reflects both traditional values—such as the importance of balance and holistic health—and the influence of international trends.
Vitamin B12 deficiency, a central theme in the Vogue story, appears to be rare in the general Thai population, with studies reporting only 0.6% deficiency among older Thais (PubMed; thaiscience.info). Some subgroups, however, such as long-term vegetarians and those with certain medical conditions (like metformin-treated diabetes patients), may be at higher risk, even as the majority of Thais—whose traditional diets feature fish, meat, and eggs—are less likely to encounter this problem (ASEAN Endocrine Journal). In the Thai vegetarian community, B12 deficiency is rare but not impossible, and most healthy Thai adults are unlikely to require B12 supplementation beyond dietary sources (Thai Journal; PubMed).
What sets Thorne Basic Nutrients apart? Unlike candy-like chewables, its formulation offers high bioavailability—meaning nutrients are more easily absorbed—and is free from common allergens, fillers, and fish oils. Its key components include B vitamins (for energy), vitamin D (for bone health and immunity), antioxidants like vitamin C and E, zinc, magnesium, and more. These cover the “essentials” for those at risk of deficiency, offering a practical solution for people with restricted diets, food allergies, or absorption issues (Vogue).
Yet, experts stress moderation and caution. “Supplements can help fill in the gaps, but they are not a replacement for whole foods,” notes a registered dietitian. In fact, taking supplements on an empty stomach can cause nausea; the dietitian recommends taking multivitamins with breakfast and a source of dietary fat to aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Patients should expect results to vary: it can take several weeks to notice effects, and those with deeper deficiencies may require longer for improvement.
For Thais, underlying trends point to both opportunity and concern. As the Thai market for supplements expands, many are drawn by a desire for better health, improved appearance, and more energy. Statista reports a steady rise in vitamin and mineral product sales in the country (Statista). However, experts highlight the risks of self-diagnosis, over-supplementation, and the potential for waste or even harm from excessive intake—especially fat-soluble vitamins that accumulate in the body.
Historically, Thailand has navigated competing influences: a tradition of herbal remedies and food-based health, combined with rapid modernization. Health-conscious Thais are blending ancient wisdom with new science. City dwellers face time shortages and diet imbalances, while older generations remember the “food as medicine” approach. In this landscape, supplements like Thorne’s offer both promise and a reminder: no pill can replace a well-rounded Thai meal of rice, vegetables, fish, and fruit.
Looking ahead, the Thai government and health sector are working to improve public understanding of nutrition, both through formal education and targeted messaging about supplements. Researchers note the importance of distinguishing between those who need supplements (elderly, pregnant women, people with medical conditions) and the general public, who usually do not benefit from routine vitamin and mineral pills (ScienceDirect). The risk of marketing-driven overuse remains: as the wellness industry grows, so does the challenge for health authorities to ensure safety and evidence-based guidance.
For Thai readers wondering if multivitamins could remedy chronic fatigue or low energy, the message is nuanced. If you have persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult a Thai healthcare provider and undergo proper testing—especially since B12 or iron deficiency, thyroid issues, and other treatable conditions could be at the root. For vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions, a high-quality, doctor-recommended supplement like Thorne Basic Nutrients may be beneficial after blood work confirms deficiency. However, for most healthy Thais, focusing on a varied, balanced diet remains the best strategy.
In practical terms:
- If you often feel tired, consult a health professional to rule out underlying medical conditions.
- Vegetarians or those with highly restricted diets, especially over many years, should periodically check B12, iron, and vitamin D levels.
- Pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions may benefit from targeted supplementation, as advised by their physician.
- Always take vitamins as directed, ideally with a meal.
- Beware of excessive supplementation and “miracle” marketing—more isn’t always better.
- Nutrition is best addressed through food; supplements are just that—a supplement.
As Thailand’s wellness movement evolves, the humble multivitamin will continue to play a supporting role, but the focus should remain on evidence-based advice, individual needs, and the joys of a balanced Thai diet.
Tags: #multivitamins #fatigue #Thailand #vitaminB12 #supplementation #nutrition #health #vegetarian #wellness #evidencebased
Sources:
- Vogue: The Daily Multivitamin That Remedied One Vogue Writer’s Fatigue
- ScienceDirect: Vitamin and mineral supplements and fatigue
- Johns Hopkins Medicine: Is There Really Any Benefit to Multivitamins?
- Harvard Health: More evidence suggests multivitamins slow cognitive decline
- NIH News: Multivitamins not associated with lower mortality
- PubMed: Vitamin supplementation and related nutritional status in Thai population
- ASEAN Endocrine Journal: Prevalence of B12 deficiency in Thai patients
- Statista: Vitamins & Minerals—Thailand market
- thaiscience.info: Epidemiological survey of vitamin deficiencies in older Thai adults (PDF)