Do Athletic Greens (AG1) contain probiotics?
Yes, Athletic Greens' AG1 formula includes a specific blend of probiotics. The supplement is designed as a foundational nutrition product, and gut health is one of its core focus areas, incorporating both prebiotics and a blend of beneficial probiotic bacteria. The current 'Next Gen' formula contains five distinct dairy-free probiotic strains, totaling 10 billion Colony Forming Units (CFU) per serving.
The specific probiotic strains in AG1
The current probiotic blend in AG1 Next Gen includes a strategic combination of strains known for their gut health benefits. This blend is intended to support the balance of the gut microbiome, which in turn influences various aspects of overall health, including digestion and immune function. The strains present are:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: A well-researched strain known for its positive effects on digestive health.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM: A common and beneficial strain that helps regulate the gut's pH balance.
- Bifidobacterium lactis HN019: A probiotic that may help improve intestinal function.
- Lactobacillus casei LC-11: Another strain that contributes to a healthy microbial community.
- Lactobacillus plantarum LP-115: A strain valued for its ability to promote a diverse gut flora.
How Athletic Greens supports digestive health beyond probiotics
Beyond the probiotic blend, Athletic Greens incorporates several other ingredients aimed at improving digestion and gut function. These include prebiotics and digestive enzymes.
- Prebiotics: The formula contains prebiotic fiber, such as inulin, which acts as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. This helps the probiotic strains to thrive and colonize effectively, supporting a healthy and balanced gut ecosystem.
- Digestive Enzymes: Enzymes like Bromelain are included to help the body break down and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can be particularly helpful for those with sensitive digestive systems.
- Whole-food ingredients: The comprehensive list of over 75 whole-food-sourced ingredients provides a broad spectrum of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to foundational wellness, which includes a healthy gut.
AG1 vs. Other Greens Powders: Probiotic Comparison
When evaluating green powders, the probiotic content is a significant differentiating factor. AG1 is often compared with other brands like Live it Up Super Greens and Primal Greens.
| Feature | Athletic Greens (AG1) | Live it Up Super Greens | Primal Greens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Probiotic CFU | 10 Billion CFU (Next Gen) | 5 Billion CFU | 3.5 Billion CFU |
| Probiotic Strains | 5 strains: L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus, B. lactis, L. casei, L. plantarum | Multiple strains included | Multiple strains included |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes, NSF Certified for Sport | Manufactured in GMP facility | No specific certification mentioned |
| Price per Serving | Higher ($2.63–$3.30) | Lower (~$1.33) | Lower (~$1.60) |
| Overall Ingredients | Over 75 ingredients, including adaptogens, digestive enzymes, and superfoods | Contains greens, enzymes, probiotics, and antioxidants | Contains superfood, antioxidant, and digestive blends |
Is AG1 the right choice for your gut health needs?
For individuals seeking a high-potency probiotic blend combined with a comprehensive range of nutrients, AG1 offers a robust all-in-one solution. Its NSF certification provides an extra layer of quality assurance, which is particularly valuable for athletes or those with strict dietary requirements. However, the product is significantly more expensive than many of its competitors. For budget-conscious consumers, alternatives with lower CFU counts and fewer ingredients might be a better fit.
It is important to remember that while AG1 and other green powders can supplement your nutrition, they should not replace a balanced diet rich in whole foods. For optimal gut health, consuming a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods is always recommended. You can read more about balancing diet and supplements here.
Conclusion
In summary, Athletic Greens (AG1) absolutely contains probiotics, specifically a blend of five dairy-free strains totaling 10 billion CFU per serving in its latest formula. This blend, along with prebiotics and digestive enzymes, makes gut health a central focus of the product. The presence of high-quality, third-party-tested probiotics sets it apart in the greens powder market, although this is reflected in its premium price point. For those prioritizing a convenient and comprehensive daily supplement with significant probiotic support, AG1 is a strong contender. However, it is crucial to consider individual health needs, budget, and the importance of a well-rounded diet when deciding if this supplement is the right choice for you.
