Greens powders have exploded in popularity as a way to boost daily nutrition, but not all are created equal. Among the top contenders are Live it Up Supergreens (formerly Enso Supergreens) and Athletic Greens' AG1. Choosing the right one requires looking beyond the marketing to examine the core differences in their formulas, costs, and overall value. While AG1 offers a comprehensive blend for high-performance athletes, Live it Up presents a simpler, organic, and more budget-friendly alternative for the average consumer.
Ingredient Philosophy: Whole-Food vs. Multi-Complex
One of the most significant distinctions between the two products lies in their approach to ingredient formulation. Live it Up emphasizes a straightforward, all-natural philosophy, sourcing vitamins and minerals directly from over 20 organic, plant-based superfoods. This focus on whole-food nutrients means a cleaner, less-processed product, but also results in more modest, balanced dosages of vitamins that complement a healthy diet. The blend notably includes a powerful trio of digestive enzymes (papain, bromelain, and pepsin) and 5 billion CFU of dairy-free probiotics for gut health support.
AG1, conversely, utilizes a more extensive, multi-complex formula with over 75 ingredients, including adaptogens, functional mushrooms, and a variety of whole-food-sourced ingredients. To achieve its high-potency claims, AG1 often includes synthetic vitamins and minerals in massive, concentrated doses that can far exceed daily requirements. This robust, high-dose approach is designed for individuals with significant nutrient deficiencies or intense athletic needs, rather than for general, daily maintenance. However, the use of proprietary blends can leave ingredient quantities less transparent than Live it Up's fully disclosed label.
Adaptogens and Synthetics: A Closer Look
AG1 differentiates itself by including a range of adaptogenic herbs and functional mushrooms, such as ashwagandha, astragalus, and reishi. These ingredients are intended to help the body manage stress and support cognitive function. While Live it Up does not contain these added adaptogens, its formula focuses on fundamental support for digestion and energy from organic greens and superfoods. For those concerned about synthetic additives, Live it Up is the clear choice, as it uses only naturally derived nutrients and avoids stevia, opting for monk fruit instead. AG1, on the other hand, relies on added synthetic vitamins and uses stevia as its primary sweetener, which can leave a strong aftertaste for some users.
Comparison: Live it Up Supergreens vs. AG1
| Feature | Live it Up Supergreens | Athletic Greens (AG1) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | 20+ organic superfoods, 5B CFU probiotics, 3 digestive enzymes | 75+ ingredients, adaptogens, mushrooms, 10B CFU probiotics, 1 digestive enzyme |
| Sourcing | All vitamins and minerals naturally derived from whole foods | Uses both whole-food sourced ingredients and added synthetic vitamins |
| Certifications | Third-party tested, GMP-certified facility | NSF Certified for Sport®, GMP-certified facility |
| Price per Serving | ~$1.33-$2.00 (with subscription) | ~$2.63-$3.30 (with subscription) |
| Sweetener | Monk fruit (no stevia) | Stevia leaf extract |
| Flavor | Original (minty), Wild Berries | Original (pineapple/vanilla), Berry, Citrus, Tropical |
| Target User | Everyday health, gut health, budget-conscious | High-performance athletes, comprehensive blend, higher budget |
Value and Taste: The Experience Matters
When it comes to value, Live it Up has a clear edge for the average consumer. Its affordable price point, especially with a subscription, makes it a more accessible option for daily use over the long term. AG1’s significantly higher cost per serving is often a drawback for those not needing its extensive list of athletic-focused ingredients.
Taste is highly subjective, but reviews consistently praise Live it Up's neutral, often-minty, or wild berry flavors, sweetened with monk fruit, as being palatable and easy to drink on their own. This makes integrating it into a morning routine less of a chore. AG1’s flavor profile, sweetened with stevia, is more divisive. While some appreciate its pineapple and vanilla notes, others complain of a cloying sweetness or an unpleasant grassy undertone. The smoother texture of Live it Up is also a noted plus over the sometimes-gritty feel of AG1.
Which Greens Powder is Right for You?
The choice ultimately depends on your individual health goals and budget. If you are a high-performance athlete requiring an expansive nutrient blend with adaptogens and are unconcerned by synthetic vitamins and a high price tag, AG1 might be the better fit. Its NSF certification offers peace of mind for those undergoing athletic drug testing. However, for most people seeking a simple, cost-effective, and natural way to support their gut health, energy levels, and overall nutritional intake, Live it Up Supergreens provides excellent value.
Think of it this way: AG1 is a high-tech, multi-purpose tool with a hefty price tag, while Live it Up is a simpler, reliable, and more accessible everyday solution. By focusing on organic, whole-food ingredients and balancing flavor with natural sweeteners, Live it Up Supergreens is often a better-rounded choice for the majority of health-conscious individuals who want to fill nutritional gaps without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
When evaluating if Live it up Supergreens is better than AG1, the verdict depends on your priorities. For many, Live it Up is the superior choice, offering a great-tasting, all-natural, and affordable formula that effectively supports digestion, immunity, and energy. While AG1 provides a more potent, ingredient-dense blend favored by some athletes, its high cost, synthetic additives, and proprietary blends make it less suitable for the average person. The key is to prioritize transparency, budget, and a formula that aligns with your everyday wellness goals. A daily greens powder should complement a balanced diet, not replace it, and Live it Up delivers this foundational nutritional support cleanly and effectively.
