The Direct Answer: Does AG1 Have Omega-3?
No, the core AG1 greens powder formula does not contain omega-3 fatty acids. AG1, the company formerly known as Athletic Greens, has designed its foundational daily greens drink to include a wide array of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and superfoods but intentionally excludes omega-3s from the powder itself.
Instead, the company offers a separate, complementary supplement called 'AG Omega3' to provide these essential fatty acids. This strategic separation is based on scientific principles related to the stability and absorption of different types of nutrients.
Why AG1 Separates Omega-3s from Its Greens Powder
The decision to keep omega-3s separate from the greens powder is driven by key nutritional science principles. The long-chain omega-3s, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are polyunsaturated fats, which are highly sensitive to environmental factors like light, heat, and oxygen. Mixing these delicate oils into a dry, powdered, water-soluble product would lead to a loss of potency and freshness. The company formulates the AG Omega3 supplement in high-quality, oil-based softgels to protect the active compounds and ensure maximum bioavailability—meaning your body can absorb and use them effectively.
Understanding the Different Types of Omega-3s
Omega-3s are a family of essential fatty acids that play crucial roles throughout the body. To understand why sourcing them correctly is important, it helps to know the main types:
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid): Primarily found in cold-water fatty fish and marine algae. It is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects and benefits for heart health.
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): Also found in marine sources, DHA is a vital component of cell membranes, particularly in the brain, retina, and sperm cells. It is critical for cognitive function, vision, and fetal development.
- ALA (Alpha-linolenic Acid): This is a plant-based omega-3 found in sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. While the body can convert a small amount of ALA into EPA and DHA, the conversion rate is extremely inefficient and not enough to meet daily needs.
Because AG1 is a plant-based formula, it might contain trace amounts of ALA from some of its whole-food ingredients, but it does not provide meaningful quantities of the highly beneficial EPA and DHA.
Why Your Body Needs Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Integrating sufficient omega-3s into your diet is vital for several aspects of health. The benefits are extensive and well-documented by research:
- Heart Health: Omega-3s are crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, reducing triglycerides, and slowing the development of plaque in the arteries.
- Brain Function: DHA is a major structural component of the brain. Adequate omega-3 intake supports cognitive function, memory, and may help protect against neurocognitive decline.
- Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a driver of many diseases. Omega-3s have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and may support overall cellular health.
- Joint and Eye Health: The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3s can benefit joint health, while DHA is a primary component of the retina, making it important for vision.
- Balanced Hydration and Skin: Omega-3s help regulate oil production, reduce breakouts, and improve balanced skin hydration.
How to Get Your Omega-3s: Food vs. Supplements
The best way to obtain omega-3s is through a balanced diet, but supplements can help fill nutritional gaps. Here is a comparison of common methods:
| Feature | AG1 Greens Powder | AG1 Omega3 Softgels | Whole Food Omega-3 (e.g., Salmon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Foundational nutrition (multivitamin, probiotics, superfoods) | Provides concentrated EPA & DHA | Delivers complete nutrition package (protein, fat, vitamins) |
| Omega-3 Content | None | High potency EPA & DHA (>2000mg per serving) | High in marine omega-3s naturally |
| Form | Water-soluble powder | Oil-based softgel | Natural food matrix |
| Absorption & Stability | Irrelevant; contains no omega-3s | High bioavailability, protected from oxidation | Excellent, alongside other nutrients |
| Benefits | Energy, gut health, immunity | Brain, heart, eye, and joint health | Heart, brain, anti-inflammatory, and overall health |
| Considerations | Not a replacement for whole fruits and vegetables | Requires taking a separate pill; not vegan | Mercury risk with certain fish; requires meal prep |
Finding a High-Quality Omega-3 Supplement
If you choose to supplement, not all products are created equal. To ensure you are getting a safe and effective product, look for these factors:
- Potency (EPA/DHA Levels): Check the supplement facts to see the exact amounts of EPA and DHA per serving, not just the total fish oil amount.
- Purity & Safety: Ensure the product is third-party tested for purity and free from heavy metals like mercury, PCBs, and other contaminants.
- Freshness: Look for a low peroxide value to ensure the oil is not rancid, which can lead to fishy burps and reduced effectiveness.
- Bioavailability: The most bioavailable forms are natural triglycerides or re-esterified triglycerides.
- Sustainability: Look for certifications from organizations like Friend of the Sea or the Marine Stewardship Council to ensure responsible sourcing.
Conclusion: The Holistic View on AG1 and Omega-3
While the AG1 greens powder is a comprehensive supplement designed to provide a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other compounds, it deliberately does not include omega-3 fatty acids. This decision is a testament to the company's focus on bioavailability and product stability. By offering a separate, high-quality fish oil softgel, AG1 ensures that both products deliver their nutrients in the most effective forms possible.
For those looking to fill nutritional gaps, a dual-pronged approach is most effective: incorporating a foundation like AG1 for a broad spectrum of nutrients and adding a separate omega-3 supplement for targeted benefits related to brain, heart, and inflammation. As always, supplements are meant to complement a healthy, whole-food diet, not replace it, and consulting a healthcare professional is advisable before starting any new regimen.
For more detailed information on omega-3 fatty acids, consult the National Institutes of Health (NIH) fact sheet for health professionals and consumers.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements
