Supplements That Drain Your Energy: 5 You Might Want to Skip

Sometimes the very supplements you’re taking to feel better might be doing the opposite—leaving you fatigued, foggy, or flat-out drained. While supplements can offer incredible benefits when used correctly, certain ones may disrupt your energy levels depending on dosage, timing, or individual sensitivity. At GREENLAB CO, we believe knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your energy and well-being.

Supplements That Drain Your Energy: 5 You Might Want to Skip

Overview: When Supplements Backfire

Most supplements are designed to support health, but not all play nice with your energy levels. Some may interfere with hormones, neurotransmitters, or nutrient balance, leading to unintended fatigue. Understanding which supplements might be secretly draining your vitality can help you make smarter, more supportive choices.

This isn’t about demonizing nutrients—but about recognizing when and why certain ones might not work for you.

When It’s Most Needed

Watch for signs of supplement-related fatigue if you:

• Feel unusually tired after starting a new supplement

• Experience brain fog, low motivation, or disrupted sleep

• Take high doses of multiple supplements

• Are treating symptoms without professional guidance

If your energy dipped after changing your supplement routine, one of these five may be the culprit.

What the Science Says

Here are five supplements that can sap energy under the wrong conditions:

1. Melatonin

Great for sleep in the short term, but too much or long-term use can lead to grogginess, disrupted circadian rhythms, and daytime fatigue.

Better option: Use melatonin occasionally and try magnesium or L-theanine for ongoing sleep support.

2. Iron (if not deficient)

Iron overload can cause fatigue, joint pain, and even liver issues. Taking iron without a diagnosed deficiency can backfire.

Better option: Test your levels first, and support energy naturally with B vitamins and adaptogens.

3. Magnesium (High Doses)

While magnesium supports relaxation, high doses—especially of oxide or citrate forms—can cause drowsiness or digestive upset.

Better option: Opt for moderate doses of magnesium glycinate, particularly at night.

4. Ashwagandha

This adaptogen is praised for stress relief, but in some people, it can cause sluggishness, low motivation, or hormonal imbalance when overused.

Better option: Consider cycling adaptogens or switching to energizing ones like rhodiola.

5. CBD

Popular for stress and pain, CBD may lead to drowsiness and brain fog, especially in higher doses or when combined with other sedatives.

Better option: Use in moderation and track how it affects your focus and energy during the day.

How to Choose the Right One

To avoid energy-sapping supplements:

• Start with one change at a time to track effects

• Check dosages and timing—some supplements are better at night

• Use lab testing to guide nutrient needs

• Cycle calming supplements like adaptogens and CBD

At GREENLAB CO, we focus on clean, balanced formulas that support your energy—not sabotage it.

Natural Alternatives

Support energy naturally by:

• Getting consistent sleep and sunlight exposure

• Eating iron-rich foods with vitamin C for better absorption

• Managing stress with movement and mindfulness

• Prioritizing protein, healthy fats, and hydration

These foundational habits keep your energy steady—no guesswork required.

Conclusion + CTA

Supplements should lift you up—not drag you down. By tuning into your body and understanding how certain ingredients interact with your energy, you can create a routine that truly supports your vitality.

Explore our wellness collection at GREENLAB CO to find energizing, body-honoring supplements designed for your best days.