Ever notice how November seems to sap your energy?
You’re not alone. Shorter days, darker mornings, and the first wave of winter colds can leave even the most energetic people feeling sluggish.
To get to the bottom of this seasonal slump, we asked a pharmacist to explain why tiredness peaks in November — and what you can do about it.
Why Fatigue Feels Worse in November
1. Less sunlight = less Vitamin D
As daylight hours shrink, your skin produces less Vitamin D — an essential nutrient for mood and energy. Low Vitamin D levels can make you feel fatigued, achy, or generally low. That’s why the NHS recommends supplementing Vitamin D from October through March in the UK.
2. Cooler weather slows you down
Cold temperatures can affect circulation and sleep quality, leaving your body working harder to stay warm. You might find yourself craving more rest or feeling groggy in the mornings.
3. Iron and energy connection
If you’re constantly feeling drained, iron deficiency could also be a factor. Iron helps transport oxygen around your body, powering your muscles and brain. When levels drop, you feel tired, dizzy, or mentally foggy.
4. Busy schedules, less self-care
Between work, school runs, and gearing up for the festive season, your routine might be heavier on coffee than rest. Stress and irregular eating patterns can both impact your nutrient absorption and overall energy.
The Role of Iron in Fatigue
Your pharmacist explains:
“Iron is crucial for energy production. Without enough, your red blood cells can’t carry oxygen effectively — and that’s when fatigue hits. It’s especially common in women and vegetarians, but anyone can experience low iron.”
The good news? You can usually correct mild deficiency through diet and gentle supplementation.
Vegan Iron-Rich Foods
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Lentils, beans, and chickpeas
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Tofu and tempeh
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Spinach, kale, and broccoli
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Pumpkin seeds, almonds, and cashews
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Fortified cereals and oat milk
Pro tip: Pair these foods with Vitamin C (like oranges, peppers, or strawberries) to boost absorption naturally.
Don’t Forget Vitamin D
Another major November fatigue trigger is low Vitamin D. It’s essential for maintaining energy, immunity, and mood.
Your pharmacist says:
“Most people in the UK can’t make enough Vitamin D from sunlight between October and March. Taking a supplement is a simple, safe way to stay topped up.”
You’ll find Vitamin D in fortified plant milks, mushrooms exposed to UV light, and vegan supplements.
Simple Habits to Boost Energy Naturally
While vitamins play a big role, lifestyle changes also make a difference. Try these pharmacist-approved tips:
Stick to a sleep schedule – Aim for 7–9 hours, and get morning daylight exposure to regulate your body clock.
Stay hydrated – Even mild dehydration can cause tiredness and headaches.
Eat balanced meals – Combine complex carbs, protein, and iron-rich plants to keep blood sugar stable.
Move daily – Gentle exercise, even a 20-minute walk, increases circulation and energy.
Time your caffeine – Enjoy your tea or coffee before midday to avoid disrupting sleep.
When to Consider Supplements
If your diet is balanced but you still feel exhausted, supplements can help fill small nutritional gaps.
For plant-based families, Vegums Vegan Iron Gummies and Multivitamin Gummies are designed to make healthy habits easy — and even enjoyable.
They’re:
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100% vegan and plastic-free
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Gentle on the stomach and enriched with B vitamins for energy
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Family-friendly — suitable for adults and kids
A quick daily chew can help support your energy and immunity throughout the darker months.
When to Speak to a Pharmacist or GP
If your tiredness feels extreme, lasts more than a few weeks, or comes with other symptoms (like dizziness, heart palpitations, or breathlessness), it’s worth getting checked. A simple blood test can reveal low iron, vitamin deficiencies, or other causes — and your pharmacist can guide you on safe next steps.The Bottom Line
Feeling tired in November isn’t unusual — it’s your body adjusting to darker days and colder weather. But that doesn’t mean you have to drag yourself through it.
By getting enough iron and Vitamin D, staying hydrated, eating well, and prioritising rest, you can feel brighter, more focused, and ready for the winter ahead.
Explore Vegums’ Vegan Iron and Multivitamin Gummies — simple, sustainable support to help your family stay energised this season.
