How long after drinking AG1 can you drink coffee? Get the Optimal Timing

December 7, 2025 •

2 min read

Approximately 62% of Americans drink coffee daily, frequently as part of their morning health regimen. A common question arises for those who include Athletic Greens (AG1) in their routine: What is the optimal waiting time before drinking coffee to ensure maximum benefit from your greens powder? The general recommendation is a waiting period of 30 to 60 minutes.

Quick Summary

A 30–60 minute wait between AG1 and coffee consumption maximizes absorption of vital vitamins and minerals. Coffee's tannins and caffeine can inhibit absorption of nutrients such as iron, zinc, and calcium found in AG1.

Key Points

Optimal Waiting Time: Wait 30 to 60 minutes after drinking AG1 before consuming coffee for maximum nutrient absorption.
Caffeine and Tannin Interference: Compounds in coffee, like caffeine and tannins, can inhibit the absorption of key minerals and increase the excretion of water-soluble vitamins.
Prioritize Probiotics: Consuming AG1 on an empty stomach first thing in the morning allows the probiotics and other nutrients to absorb more effectively without competition.
Affected Nutrients: Coffee can negatively impact the absorption of iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and certain B vitamins found in AG1.
Consistency is Crucial: While timing is important for optimizing benefits, the most critical factor for a greens powder is consistent daily use.
Individual Factors: The extent of the interaction can depend on your overall diet, nutrient levels, and individual sensitivity to caffeine or acidity.

Understanding the Interaction Between AG1 and Coffee

While Athletic Greens indicates that AG1 can be taken before, alongside, or after coffee, nutritional research suggests that a time gap is preferable for optimal benefits. This is because coffee's compounds, especially tannins and caffeine, can interact with AG1's vitamins and minerals, potentially decreasing their absorption.

The Impact of Tannins and Caffeine

Tannins in coffee can bind to non-heme iron, significantly hindering its absorption. This is particularly relevant for individuals with iron deficiencies. Caffeine, a diuretic, may increase the excretion of water-soluble vitamins like B vitamins and Vitamin C. It can also slightly reduce calcium absorption and increase its loss.

Why a Waiting Period Helps

A waiting period of 30 to 60 minutes enables the body to begin absorbing AG1's nutrients before coffee's compounds interfere. Additionally, taking AG1 on an empty stomach is optimal for probiotics to reach the gut efficiently.

Creating Your Optimal Morning Routine

The following is a suggested routine to combine AG1 and coffee effectively:

Hydrate First: Drink a large glass of cold water upon waking. AG1 should be mixed with cold water.
Take Your AG1: Consume AG1 on an empty stomach to improve absorption.
Wait 30–60 Minutes: Allow this time for nutrient absorption before drinking coffee.
Enjoy Your Coffee: After the wait, coffee can be consumed.

Comparison of AG1 and Coffee Timing

The table below shows the potential outcomes of different timing approaches:


Action	Time After AG1	Potential Outcome	Nutrient Absorption	Digestive Impact
Drink Coffee Immediately	0–15 mins	Reduced absorption of certain minerals and vitamins.	Lowered	Possible stomach irritation.
Wait for Optimal Absorption	30–60 mins	Maximum absorption of AG1's vitamins and probiotics.	Higher	Minimal interference.
Drink Coffee After a Meal	60+ mins	Moderate impact on mineral absorption.	Varies	Depends on food.

Considerations and Important Caveats

While a time gap is beneficial, several factors can influence the interaction:

Dietary Balance: Effects are more pronounced in those with nutrient deficiencies.
Individual Sensitivity: Some may experience digestive issues when combining coffee and supplements on an empty stomach.
Medication Interactions: Consult a doctor if taking medications, as AG1 contains various ingredients.
Consistency is Key: Regular daily use of AG1 is more important than perfect timing.

AG1 contains a small amount of caffeine from green tea and cocoa bean.

What the Research Says

Studies indicate that coffee compounds can reduce nutrient absorption. Polyphenols can significantly inhibit iron absorption. Caffeine's diuretic effect may lead to increased excretion of water-soluble vitamins like B vitamins and vitamin C. These interactions are particularly relevant for those with deficiencies or specific health goals like maintaining bone density.

Conclusion

A waiting period of 30 to 60 minutes between AG1 and coffee consumption is the best approach for maximizing nutrient absorption. This allows the body to fully benefit from AG1's vitamins, minerals, and probiotics before coffee's compounds interfere. Although occasional deviations may not be harmful, a consistent routine of taking AG1 first, waiting, and then having coffee is the most nutritionally sound method to support health goals.

Visit the official AG1 website for more information

Frequently Asked Questions

AG1 contains trace amounts of caffeine from natural ingredients like green tea extract and cocoa bean powder, but the quantity is very small and not intended as a stimulant.

Mixing AG1 with hot liquids is generally not recommended by the company, as heat can affect the integrity and efficacy of some ingredients, especially the probiotics.

Drinking coffee immediately after AG1 can decrease the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly iron and zinc, due to the tannins and caffeine in coffee.

While decaf coffee contains significantly less caffeine, it still contains tannins and other polyphenols that can interfere with nutrient absorption. A 30–60 minute waiting period is still recommended for optimal results.

The ideal routine is to drink AG1 mixed with cold water on an empty stomach, wait 30–60 minutes, and then have your coffee and breakfast.

AG1's official guidance emphasizes convenience and habit-forming. While the company says it's acceptable, general nutritional science suggests waiting for better nutrient absorption, which is a nuance not fully explored in their FAQ.

Yes, splitting your AG1 and coffee intake to different times of the day is an excellent strategy. Many people drink AG1 in the morning and reserve their coffee for a later boost.