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Home arrow Nutrition arrow Healthy Eating arrow AG1 (Formerly Athletic Greens) Review: Nutritionist’s Unfiltered Take

AG1 (Formerly Athletic Greens) Review: Nutritionist’s Unfiltered Take

HR_author_photo_Edibel
Written by Edibel Quintero, RD
HR_author_photo_Rosmy
Fact checked by Rosmy Barrios, MD
Last update: November 28, 2023
16 min read 1649 Views 0 Reviews
clock 16 eye 1649 comments 0

Join me as I dive into the world of greens powders and explore the leading Athletic Greens powder. Here I uncover its various applications, benefits, and even take a look at its not-so-bright side.

AG1 reviews

How do we vet brands and products? Learn more.

Sometimes, our diets can be like puzzle pieces that don’t quite fit together to create a complete health picture. When the missing pieces prevent us from meeting our nutritional needs, the world of dietary supplements awaits.

As a certified nutritionist, I am constantly scouting new products to help my clients foster a nutritionally balanced diet. During my search for effective solutions, I came across AG1, which has become quite popular in the wellness industry. 

Companies like AG1 have managed to make supplements that support immunity, recovery, and digestion. The brand makes its supplements for all groups of people at all activity levels.

To assess how effective this supplement truly is, I decided to try it myself. I have created this detailed review to share my experience and key findings regarding AG1.

What Is Athletic Greens (AG1)?

Athletic Greens AG1 logo
Our rating:
4.0
stars
  • Free from major allergens
  • Prepared from whole food sources
  • Can be incorporated into many dietary lifestyles
  • Easily digestible because it is in powder form
  • Has a 90-day money-back guarantee
  • Third-party testing seal
Learn More
  • checkmark
    Improves digestion
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    Supports immune health
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    Supports recovery after workouts
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    Good for liver health
  • checkmark
    NSF certified for athletes
  • checkmark
    Vegan and vegetarian-friendly
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    Expensive compared to other greens powders
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    May cause digestive problems
  • checkmark
    Unclear whether ingredients are in clinically relevant doses

AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens) is a nutritional supplement combining vitamins, antioxidants, and adaptogens that help support brain, muscle, gut, and overall cell health. 

It’s good for everyone, but because it has highly absorbable nutrients, it can be especially convenient for athletes.

What sets AG1 apart from most other greens powders is the addition of raw superfood extracts, mushrooms, herbs, and probiotics.

Proprietary blends of AG1 contain some high-quality organic ingredients. However, it is not an organic product as a whole because it also contains some non-organic ingredients, such as stevia.

The company claims that it provides all the vitamins and minerals in a typical multivitamin because most of the AG1 ingredients come from whole fruits and veggies.

⭐ Rating

4
stars

✅ Pros

Digestive and immunity support

❌ Cons

Expensive, might cause bloating and diarrhea

💊 Dosage form

Powder

🔔 How to use

Mix one scoop of AG1 with a glass of water

💰 Price

From $107

How does AG1 work?

Unlike standard multivitamins that commonly come in a pill formula, this supplement comes in a powder form. It’s designed to be mixed with water and then consumed as a drink. 

This formula helps the body better utilize the nutrients, as they are digested and absorbed more easily.

Since the supplement is entirely plant-based, it is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. The brand also states the product is keto-friendly, with only a low amount of net carbs. 

In this AG1 review, I’m going to discuss all the ingredients in more detail, but first, let me explain why I chose to unpack this product specifically and how it went. 

My First Impressions of AG1

Given its popularity, I was naturally intrigued when I first discovered AG1. What primarily stood out to me was the supplement’s transparency of its ingredients. 

AG1 features a range of valuable components, including antioxidants, essential nutrients, prebiotics, probiotics, stress adaptogens, and digestive enzymes. 

Another factor that caught my eye was the fact that the product is gluten-free, free from eggs, and doesn’t contain any added sugar or artificial additives (such as GMOs and preservatives).  

After researching its ingredients and reviewing an array of positive customer reviews, I decided to try the supplement myself and put it to the test. I ordered a supply through their official website to give the product a go.  

Upon using the supplement, I followed its instructions, mixing it with water. I found the powdered formula easy to mix and convenient to serve, which allowed me to seamlessly integrate the product into my daily routine. Here, I must also mention that I chose to take the supplement every morning. 

In terms of taste, AG1 left me pleasantly surprised. I found the flavors pleasantly sweet, which was a significant bonus as many green supplements I have tried in the past have either tasted too bland or too bitter. 

Overall, my first impressions of AG1 were positive. From its range of beneficial ingredients to its appealing taste, I think the product offers a delightful all-in-one nutrient solution. 

How to Use AG1

The AG1 powder should be mixed with cold water and taken on an empty stomach in the morning for optimal absorption. Keep in mind that it’s not a meal replacement and should be combined with a balanced diet for the best results.

You can also mix it with milk or in a green smoothie. However, the company advises against mixing it with hot or acidic liquids as it may affect the efficacy and integrity of the ingredients.

The company recommends taking one scoop a day, but people with significant life stressors or athletes during short-term periods of intense activities like rowing or cycling can take up to two servings daily.

Key Ingredients of AG1

A container of AG1 has 30 servings, each 12g. One scoop contains the following:

  • Calories: 40 
  • Total carbs: 4.8g
  • Protein: 4g 
  • Dietary fiber: 1.9g 
  • Fat: 0g

This green powder also contains an impressive micronutrient profile as it has a vitamin and mineral blend.

Athletic Greens supplement facts

The AG1 powder is a comprehensive superfood powder containing 75 ingredients. Most AG1 ingredients are whole-food sourced nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This daily green powder has ingredients grouped into 5 different categories, as shown below.

#1 Raw superfood complex

The raw superfood complex in AG1 is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with papaya, organic spirulina, broccoli, apple powder, spinach root extract, and cocoa bean extract, which are excellent for supporting overall health. I find the liver-protective and pH-balancing properties of these superfoods particularly appealing.

#2 Natural extracts, herbs, and antioxidants

This product features a blend of adaptogen herbs and different nutrient-dense extracts that improve antioxidant activity and support hormonal functions. 

These components are particularly beneficial to those who wish to maintain their skincare, promote hair growth, and support immunity. 

Some ingredients include ashwagandha root extract, citrus bioflavonoids extract, hawthorn root extract, rosemary leaf extract, dandelion root extract, milk thistle seed extract, and stevia.

These herbs also have supportive benefits and supports brain health and blood sugar. Personally, I experienced higher energy levels and better focus when taking this Greens powder supplement. This effect kicked in soon after I consumed the product in the morning.  

#3 Digestive enzyme and super mushroom complex

This blend contains super mushroom complexes such as reishi mushroom powder and shiitake mushroom powder. It also contains digestive enzymes like bromelain, burdock root powder, and astragalus, a root powder extract.

These digestive enzymes and mushroom complex help support digestive health, immune function, and nutrient absorption. 

#4 Probiotics

Probiotics help promote healthy gut bacteria balance, improve digestive health, and offer antimicrobial health benefits. Probiotics are great for tackling diarrhea and promoting a smoothly functioning gut.

The blend has two dairy-free probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilus UALa-01 and Bifidobacterium bifidum UABb-10. Both of these strains are well-studied and often celebrated within the nutritionist community due to their effectiveness. 

#5 Various vitamins and minerals

AG1 is a nutrient-dense greens powder with a long list of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, C, E, several B-complex vitamins, and vitamin K2. It also contains minerals such as sodium, selenium, copper, and manganese that positively contribute to human health.

It also contains alpha-lipoic acid that helps convert glucose to energy, niacin for repairing cell damage, and folate. I find the inclusion of these ingredients particularly impressive as they are valuable ingredients that facilitate optimal cellular health and support energy metabolism.

What I Liked About AG1

From my professional standpoint, AG1 contains high-quality ingredients. This green powder is a dense raw superfood complex with 75 ingredients, nearly two to three times the number in other greens powders. 

However, more isn’t always better, as it contains more than 100% of the recommended daily value in some ingredients and way less in others.

Nonetheless, during the time I consumed AG1, I actually noticed my digestion improve. Although I felt full after meals, I didn’t feel uncomfortably bloated and was able to go to the toilet without any issues. 

There isn’t much research on the health benefits of this green powder, and most of the health benefits are associated with the individual ingredients. With that said, below are some of the main benefits I personally experienced when taking AG1.

#1 Might support digestion

As I mentioned previously, AG1 contains well-researched probiotics, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum. These are both derived from non-dairy sources and help support digestive health.

Studies show that L. acidophilus has antimicrobial properties, helps modulate bowel function, and improves digestive health. It also helps suppress intestinal pathogens and allows good bacteria to thrive.

B. bifidum is the most abundant gut bacteria in healthy infants, and it helps improve overall health. It also has a small amount of fiber that improves overall health.

However, based on my experience with clients, I have learned that probiotics are not a one-size-fits-all solution, as some may have potential side effects. 

As a nutritionist, I feel responsible to warn you that some probiotics can worsen gut health among some individuals. The best way to improve digestive health and minimize bloating is by eating a healthy, fiber-rich diet and drinking enough water

While probiotics may not be for everyone, they do help many people. I personally found that AG1 greatly supported my digestion and made my bathroom breaks smoother than usual. 

#2 May increase energy 

The green powder supplement also contains rosehip, which provides potent antioxidant activity and is high in carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C. These supplements help with moderate weight gain.

The supplement also contains green tea, which is a healthy source of energy. I often advise clients to take green tea instead of coffee, as it contains a much lower caffeine index, meaning it doesn’t cause jitters or restlessness.  

I find that AG1 is also good for the nervous system as it provides the nutrients necessary for neurotransmitters, which might help to support cognitive function. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce brain inflammation.

When consuming this product, I noticed an improvement in my concentration, and my energy levels began to increase, making it easier to wake up in the morning, work efficiently, and exercise at a consistent pace. 

#3 Boosts recovery after workouts

While I was taking AG1, I certainly found my muscles feeling more relaxed after intense workouts. I believe with sufficient water intake and appropriate exercise, this supplement can certainly aid post-workout recovery.

The supplement contains a blend of nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc that generally benefit recovery and supports immunity. It also contains added vitamins and minerals that are necessary for increased energy production at a cellular level.

For instance, B vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism. A nice addition to the powder is ashwagandha, which can reduce inflammation and even minimize stress

#4 May support the immune system 

AG1 contains astragalus, a Chinese herb that supports a healthy immune system. Astragalus contains antioxidants that have a protective effect on the kidney, intestine, liver, and brain. It also helps balance hormones and protects the body from inflammation-related diseases. 

Additionally, the supplement contains organic chlorella powder with zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and provitamin A. Studies show that chlorella powder has protective effects on the liver by lowering blood fats and reducing the risk of contracting liver disease.

From a nutritional standpoint, the inclusion of astragalus and organic chlorella powder is noteworthy, given the potential benefits of these ingredients.

#5 Suitable for different diets

It’s always great to see supplements that harness the power of natural plant-based foods, and AG1 does just that. This supplement is free from animal products, including dairy-free probiotics, making it suited to vegetarians and vegans. 

For those following a gluten-free diet, AG1 is a superb option as it is completely free from grains containing gluten. 

This means that individuals who suffer from a gluten intolerance or celiac disease can safely integrate AG1 into their diet without worrying about any unwanted reactions. 

Those following a keto diet or a paleo diet can take AG1 with no worry, as the supplement is low in net carbs.

Furthermore, this supplement is also non-GMO and nut-free, making it suited to those with related allergies or those who prefer to avoid genetically modified ingredients. 

#6 Safe for sports

After assessing the ingredients in AG1, I can confidently deem it safe for individuals who frequently engage in sports. This is primarily due to its transparent ingredients, meaning there are no hidden nasties or unsafe components. 

I believe that the nutrient-rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality superfoods will greatly benefit athletes and meet their needs. For example, they can increase energy levels during exercise and facilitate smooth recovery after workouts, allowing athletes to improve their performance in both areas.

What I Didn’t Like

Although AG1 presented several advantages, which I firmly believe will benefit many individuals, it also has some downsides. 

Here are the main things I didn’t particularly enjoy about AG1: 

#1 The taste may not be for everyone 

Although I found the slightly sweet taste profile of AG1 pleasant, it may not be everyone’s taste. I would prefer there to be a wider variety of flavors available to choose from to ensure the product caters to various preferences. 

#2 Contains very little fiber

I found the low fiber content of AG1 a fundamental drawback, especially for individuals seeking to manage their weight and support their digestive function. A fiber boost from ingredients such as psyllium husk or flaxseed could greatly enhance the product’s digestive benefits.

#3 May cause unpleasant side effects

It’s important to understand that the side effects of the AG1 nutrition powder vary among individuals. However, the most common side effects are nausea and digestive issues like diarrhea and bloating. Spirulina also contains anticoagulant properties that lead to blood thinning.

Other ingredients, such as astragalus, interfere with immunosuppressive drugs, and Rhodiola may cause dizziness or a dry mouth.

#4 Not safe for everyone

It’s important to note that consuming AG1 is not advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women and people under 18. It is best to consult with your healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your dietary plan. 

AG1 also contains ingredients that might be detrimental if you are allergic to them. 

For example, it includes ingredients such as lecithin, which contains phosphatidyl serine and phosphatidyl choline, both derived from soy. This could be a problem for people with soy allergies. It is, therefore, advisable to check the ingredients list carefully for potential allergens.

#5 Lack of research on the effectiveness of the blend

Although AG1 features several ingredients rooted in research, it does contain some that lack conclusive evidence for their efficacy. 

For instance, the supplement contains spirulina, which poses potential health benefits, such as its supposed ability to lower cholesterol or its potential anti-inflammatory properties, that haven’t been proven. 

How Much Does AG1 Cost?

Upon shopping for AG1, you are presented with two options: The Pouch, comprising one 30-serving pouch, and the Travel Pack, comprising 30 individual travel packs designed to be taken on the go. 

The Pouch costs $99 ($79 with current promotion) for a single subscription and $198 ($149 with promotion) for a double subscription. 

The Travel Pack costs $109 ($89 with current promotion) for a single subscription and $218 ($169 with current promotion) for a double subscription. 

Both the Pouch and Travel Pack options come with a free starter kit, including a shaker, five travel packs, and a year’s supply of D3+K2. 

You can purchase AG1 from their official site. The AG1 website offers a 90-day money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with the product within the first 60 days of purchase.

AG1 vs. the Alternatives

When shopping for any supplement, it’s always best to compare different products to ensure you choose what’s right for you. To help you compare AG1 against similar supplements, I have created this comparison table:

Comparison Winner: AG1
4.0
stars
3.9
stars
3.6
stars
Brand
AG1
Beyond Greens
Balance of Nature
Pros

Prepared from whole food sources

Third-party testing seal

Supports immune health

NSF certified for athletes

Doesn’t contain major allergens

90-day money-back guarantee

12-month money-back guarantee for unopened packages

Dairy-free and soy-free

Affordable

Boosts mental clarity

A convenient way of eating real fruits and vegetables each day

30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

Expensive compared to other greens powders

May cause digestive problems

Unclear whether ingredients are in clinically relevant doses

Lacks certified third-party testing seal

Lacks information on ingredients

Lacks information on ingredients

Relatively expensive supplement product

The brand has received an FDA warning

Requires taking 6 supplements each day

What Do Other Users Think About AG1?

Reading real-life reviews is the easiest way of assessing how effective any product is. The reviews for AG1 are highly positive. Upon browsing their site, you can find feedback from customers, health experts, and athletes. 

It has a respectable 4.5-star rating based on 36,991 reviews (at the time of writing). I also took reviews from third-party sites, including Amazon, where the brand has a 4.4-star rating based on 3,257 reviews. Here’s what some users have to say about the supplement: 

This happy customer experienced better energy from AG1.

image5

This customer enjoyed the ease of consumption, the taste, and the increased energy the supplement provided.

image1

This customer was satisfied with the supplement’s taste and felt the benefits were average, but found the price to be too high.

image4

This satisfied customer enjoyed the flavor of the supplement and experienced an energy boost. However, they did not experience improved digestion and believe it’s too expensive.

image3

This happy customer thoroughly enjoyed AG1, sharing they felt energized and liked the taste. 

How I Evaluated AG1

When testing AG1 against other greens powders in the market, I assessed the key factors I believe directly affect customer experience. The main factors I evaluated were quality, effectiveness, price, and brand reputation. Below are my findings.

Quality 9/10

The quality of any dietary supplement is the most important factor directly affecting a consumer. AG1 is high in quality and has a long list of ingredients accounting for its nutritional makeup. It has almost all the micronutrients in other multivitamins and superfood powders.

It also uses organic plant-based ingredients and has no artificial colors, added sugar, or artificial sweeteners. Unlike other reputable competing products, AG1 bears a third-party testing seal, a significant selling point in its favor.

Effectiveness 4/5

When testing products, I always assess their effectiveness and whether they work as advertised. Based on my body’s response to AG1, I did find it to be effective. It really do support immune health, exercise recovery, and digestion.

It is nutritional and effective for people of all activity levels and supports body functions throughout all life stages. It is also better utilized than pill supplements as the superfood powder is gentler on the stomach.

Price 4/5

The price point of a running supplement determines whether one can use it in the long term. AG1 is on the pricier side, as a one-time purchase with 30 servings costs $99.

The price fluctuates due to shipping, and you may have to pay more depending on where you live. Though it’s a high-quality product, one may have to rethink spending that money monthly.

Brand reputation 4/5

Brand reputation reflects the product quality a business offers. A good brand reputation goes hand in hand with credibility and trust. Customer retention shows that the clients love the product and are willing to be repeat customers.

AG1 has a solid reputation, many positive customer reviews, and numerous big market names behind it.

A Word From Our Medical Team

Superfood powders have high levels of antioxidants, minerals, carotenoids, and vitamins that your body needs to stay healthy. However, it is best to build healthy eating habits and get nutrients from whole foods, fruits, and vegetables before considering supplementation. Incorporating regular exercise into your life by building a workout routine is also advisable to maintain good health.

Though supplements can supply the body with additional nutrients, they do not replace a proper diet. Vegetable powders are also not suitable for everyone. People under 18, as well as pregnant and/or breastfeeding mothers, should stay away from AG1.

Before starting on any dietary supplements, consult with a medical professional. Stick to the recommended dosage for the best results.

FAQs

Does AG1 break a fast?

Though you can easily incorporate AG1 into your intermittent fasting routine, taking AG1 breaks your fast. If you do not want to impact your fast, the best solution is to consume right before taking your first meal of the day to ensure optimal performance.

Can AG1 be the cause of bloating?

AG1 contains probiotics, which may temporarily increase the gas in your stomach, leading to bloating. Though probiotics are good bacteria that support gut health and help absorb nutrients, they may cause other side effects like nausea and diarrhea.

Where to buy AG1?

You can buy the AG1 powder directly from their official website. Purchases from the website are better as there is a 90-day money-back guarantee if unsatisfied with the product.

What does AG1 taste like?

AG1 has an acquired taste as it is flavored with vanilla, pineapple, broccoli, cherry, and papaya. Although the taste may be different for everyone, it is slightly sweet and has fruity undertones in the flavors.

Conclusion: Is AG1 Worth It?

Considering the impressive research-backed ingredients in AG1 and the brand’s attention to quality, it might be worth buying. However, unlike many other greens powders, AG1 is pricier and may not be accessible to those with tighter budget constraints. 

Based on my nutritional expertise, a single scoop of powder cannot provide the body with the necessary nutrients for optimal health. It’s important to be mindful that AG1 is not a magic solution, but it might be helpful in addition to your nutrition program.

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HR_author_photo_Edibel
Written by Edibel Quintero, RD
HR_author_photo_Rosmy
Fact checked by Rosmy Barrios, MD
Last update: November 28, 2023
16 min read 1649 Views 0 Reviews
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