What is the AG1 drink?
AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, is an all-in-one nutritional supplement in powder form. Marketed as a daily health drink, it combines a multivitamin, probiotic, and superfood blend into a single scoop. The formula is made up of 75 high-quality ingredients, including essential vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and probiotics. It is designed to be mixed with cold water and consumed daily, often on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. The manufacturer, Athletic Greens, promotes the product's benefits in areas such as gut health, energy levels, immune function, and stress recovery. Unlike many dietary supplements, AG1 is third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport, which helps ensure it is free of banned substances and unsafe contaminants.
The Pros: What AG1 does well
For some, the benefits of incorporating the AG1 drink into their daily routine are notable.
- Convenience: AG1 simplifies the supplement routine by combining multiple products—including a multivitamin, probiotic, and greens powder—into one. This can be a time-saver for those with busy schedules.
- Nutrient Density: With 75 ingredients, AG1 provides a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. It contains high levels of several B vitamins and vitamins C and E, which can help fill common dietary gaps, especially for people with restrictive diets.
- Gut Health Support: The formula includes a significant dose of probiotics (10 billion CFU) along with prebiotic fiber (inulin), which can aid digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome. Many users report experiencing less bloating and more regular digestion.
- Third-Party Testing: The NSF Certified for Sport certification is a significant plus, indicating that the product is tested for purity and potency beyond standard manufacturing practices. This provides a higher level of consumer confidence.
- Energy Boost: Many customers report increased energy levels, which may be attributed to the high concentration of B vitamins that play a crucial role in energy production.
The Cons: Weighing the downsides
Despite its benefits, the AG1 drink comes with several notable drawbacks.
- High Cost: At around $3-$4 per serving, AG1 is one of the more expensive greens powders on the market. For many, this cost is a significant barrier, especially when a balanced diet or more affordable alternatives might offer similar benefits.
- Proprietary Blends: A major criticism from dietitians is the use of proprietary blends, which do not disclose the exact amount of each ingredient. This makes it impossible to know if you're receiving an effective, research-backed dose of certain key components like adaptogens or specific superfoods.
- Not a Whole Food Replacement: AG1 is not a substitute for eating whole fruits and vegetables. It lacks the fiber content and the complex network of nutrients that whole foods provide. Most nutrition experts advocate for a 'food first' approach to nutrition.
- Missing Nutrients: The supplement notably lacks adequate amounts of vitamin D, iron, and omega-3s, meaning users would still need to supplement with other products to meet all their nutritional needs.
- Potential Side Effects: Some users experience digestive issues like bloating, stomach upset, or diarrhea, particularly when first starting the supplement. This can be due to the high probiotic count or prebiotic content.
AG1 vs. Other Greens Powders
When considering the AG1 drink, it's helpful to see how it stacks up against other popular greens powders.
| Feature | AG1 (Athletic Greens) | Live it Up Super Greens | Amazing Grass Greens Blend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | 75+ ingredients, including vitamins, probiotics (10B CFU), adaptogens, and superfoods | Focuses on organic ingredients and balanced blend, with probiotics | Fewer active ingredients than AG1, with greens, fruits, and veggies |
| Proprietary Blends | Yes, exact ingredient amounts are not disclosed | More transparent formula than AG1, with clearer ingredient quantities | Proprietary blends are used |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes, NSF Certified for Sport | Independently tested but lacks major certification like NSF | Not third-party tested |
| Cost per Serving | High ($2.63–$3.30+, depending on subscription) | More affordable ($1.33) | More affordable |
| Taste | Mild, lightly sweet pineapple/vanilla | Natural, with no stevia or synthetic vitamins | Flavor profile can be earthy or grassy |
The Verdict: Is the AG1 drink worth it?
The question of whether the AG1 drink is 'good' is complex and depends heavily on individual circumstances. For a healthy person with an already balanced diet, the high cost likely doesn't justify the additional supplement. The body is already receiving adequate nutrients, and many of the additional vitamins will simply be excreted. The benefits may feel modest or unnoticeable compared to the price. However, for those with genuinely poor dietary habits, significant nutrient gaps, or intense exercise demands, AG1 can function as a valuable nutritional safety net. The convenience of a single scoop replacing multiple pills, combined with the assurance of third-party testing, is a major selling point. In this scenario, the investment might be worthwhile. Ultimately, AG1 is a high-quality supplement but not a miracle cure. Its most scientifically supported benefits likely revolve around gut health due to its probiotic content. Other purported benefits, like enhanced energy or immunity, are often based on subjective self-reporting rather than independent research.
How to Maximize the Benefits (or Find Alternatives)
- Prioritize Whole Foods: A supplement should always complement a healthy diet, not replace it. Focus on eating a wide variety of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables first.
- Consult a Professional: Talk to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before starting AG1, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take other medications. They can help assess your specific needs.
- Evaluate Alternatives: If cost is a concern, investigate more affordable greens powders that offer similar core benefits, or consider a simple multivitamin and probiotic combination.
- Consider a 'Trial Run': AG1 offers a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the product for a month to see if you personally feel any positive effects that justify the expense.
Conclusion
The AG1 drink from Athletic Greens is a high-end, comprehensive supplement that is rigorously tested for quality and purity. While it offers a convenient and effective way to fill some nutritional gaps, particularly for those with a less-than-perfect diet or specific athletic needs, it is not a magic bullet. The high cost, proprietary blends, and lack of certain key nutrients are significant factors to consider. A balanced, whole-food diet remains the most critical component of long-term health. The real question is not simply 'Is AG1 any good?', but rather 'Is it good for you, and is it worth the price?' For many, a more budget-friendly approach focusing on real food first and targeted supplementation second may prove to be just as effective.
