Understanding the Difference: AG1 vs. AGZ
Before deciding when to take your AG1, it's crucial to understand that Athletic Greens offers two distinct products designed for different times of the day. AG1 is the foundational nutrition powder, containing over 75 ingredients including vitamins, minerals, superfoods, and probiotics. Its purpose is to support energy, gut health, and immunity. On the other hand, AGZ is a sleep supplement, formulated with ingredients like ashwagandha and magnesium to support relaxation and restful sleep.
Energizing Ingredients
The B vitamins included in AG1 are essential for energy metabolism. Taking this supplement before bed could provide a burst of energy, which may disrupt the body's natural wind-down process and make falling asleep more difficult.
Potential for Digestive Discomfort
AG1 contains probiotics and prebiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. However, these can cause digestive issues, including bloating, gas, or upset stomach. This can be more likely when you're first starting. Taking a supplement with high fiber content right before bed is not ideal for comfortable sleep. Since your digestive system slows down at night, introducing this can lead to discomfort that interrupts sleep.
Optimal Absorption Window
The manufacturer and many nutrition experts recommend taking AG1 in the morning on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. This allows the body to absorb nutrients without the competition of food. While consuming it with food is still effective, the empty stomach window is considered best for maximum bioavailability. During sleep, digestion slows, which can make absorption less efficient compared to daytime hours.
Best Time to Take AG1
For most people, the optimal time to take AG1 is in the morning because:
- It aligns with energy goals: The energizing B vitamins support your day from the start.
- It supports a daily routine: Taking AG1 in the morning makes it a consistent daily habit, which is key to seeing long-term benefits.
- Optimal absorption: An empty stomach allows for maximum nutrient uptake.
- Avoids nighttime disruption: You won't risk sleep interference from the energizing ingredients or potential digestive upset.
AG1 vs. AGZ: What to Take When
To clarify the difference between the Athletic Greens products for morning and night, consider this comparison table:
| Feature | AG1 (Foundational Nutrition) | AGZ (Sleep Supplement) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Supports foundational health, energy, gut health, and immunity. | Supports restful, restorative sleep and relaxation. |
| Best Time | Morning, ideally on an empty stomach. | Nighttime, as a wind-down ritual before bed. |
| Key Ingredients | 75+ vitamins, minerals, whole-food sourced ingredients, B-vitamins, probiotics. | Adaptogens (Ashwagandha), L-theanine, magnesium L-threonate, saffron. |
| Energy Impact | Designed to provide sustained energy for the day. | Promotes relaxation and rest to reduce sleep latency. |
| Form | Greens powder mixed with cold water. | Nighttime powder mixed with water or milk, can be warm or cold. |
Conclusion: Optimize Your AG1 Timing
In conclusion, while taking AG1 before bed isn't inherently dangerous, it's also not the best approach. The greens powder is formulated to energize and support your body through the day, not to calm it down for sleep. The energizing B vitamins and potential digestive upset make it a less-than-ideal choice for a nighttime routine. For those seeking nighttime support, the company offers AGZ. Your best strategy is to take AG1 in the morning and align your supplement intake with its intended purpose. To get the most out of your supplementation, consistency is key, so find a time that works best for you and stick with it, but for AG1, the morning is scientifically the better choice for overall well-being. Medical News Today's review provides a balanced overview of AG1.
