Should I drink AG1 daily for foundational nutrition?

November 15, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2019 survey, only 10% of American adults met the daily suggested intake of vegetables, highlighting a significant nutritional gap. This deficit has fueled the popularity of all-in-one supplements like AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens), which promises to fill those nutritional voids. But should I drink AG1 daily, or is it an expensive habit with limited returns? This article explores the science, costs, and reported effects to help you decide.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive overview of AG1, discussing its ingredients, claimed benefits for energy and gut health, potential side effects, and cost. It compares AG1 to alternatives, assesses its third-party testing, and helps readers determine if a daily AG1 habit is right for their lifestyle and budget.

Key Points

Comprehensive Formula: AG1 packs 75+ vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and superfoods into a single daily scoop.
Supports Energy and Gut Health: High doses of B-vitamins boost energy, while probiotics aid digestion and gut health, according to AG1-funded studies and user reports.
High Cost: At around $79 per month, AG1 is more expensive than many competitors, making value a major consideration.
Proprietary Blends: Lack of ingredient quantity transparency in proprietary blends makes it hard to determine effective doses for some compounds.
Not a Whole Food Substitute: Health experts stress that AG1 cannot replace the fiber and diverse nutrients found in whole fruits and vegetables.
Safety Considerations: AG1 is NSF Certified, but certain groups like pregnant women, those with autoimmune conditions, or people on specific medications should be cautious.

What is AG1 and What's Inside?

AG1 is a comprehensive daily supplement powder containing a blend of over 75 vitamins, minerals, probiotics, adaptogens, and whole-food sourced nutrients. Marketed as 'Foundational Nutrition,' it is designed to replace a multitude of other supplements, including a multivitamin, probiotics, and green powder blends. Users typically mix one scoop with water and drink it once daily, often on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.

The AG1 Ingredient Breakdown

The formula is comprised of three main complexes, though exact ingredient quantities are proprietary.

1. Active Superfood and Prebiotic Complex:

Spirulina and Chlorella: Blue-green algae rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pea Protein Isolate: A source of antioxidants and amino acids.
Inulin (from chicory root): A prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
Adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Astragalus): Herbs intended to support the body's stress response.

2. Daily Phytonutrient Complex:

Wheatgrass and Barley Leaf Powder: Nutrient-dense grasses packed with vitamins A, C, and E.
Beetroot and Papaya Powder: Sources of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients.
Reishi and Shiitake Mushroom Powder: Functional mushrooms included for potential health benefits.

3. Dairy-Free Probiotics:

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains: Totaling 10 billion CFUs, intended to support a healthy gut microbiome.

The Potential Benefits of Daily AG1

Based on company-funded research and customer testimonials, daily AG1 consumption offers several potential benefits:

Energy and Focus: The high concentration of B-vitamins (including B12 at 917% DV) is crucial for energy metabolism, and many users report an increase in sustained energy and better focus.
Gut Health: With a significant dose of probiotics and prebiotics like inulin, AG1 supports a healthy gut microbiome. Several studies funded by AG1 have shown positive effects on gut bacteria, with some users reporting less bloating and more regular digestion within the first month.
Immune Support: Ingredients rich in vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and selenium contribute to normal immune function.
Overall Wellness: Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help manage stress, while a broad spectrum of nutrients acts as a nutritional safety net for those with dietary gaps, helping to promote a general sense of wellbeing.

The Potential Drawbacks and Side Effects

Despite the promised benefits, there are important downsides to consider before committing to a daily AG1 habit:

High Cost: At around $79 per month with a subscription, AG1 is one of the most expensive greens powders on the market. For individuals with a healthy, varied diet, the cost may not justify the potential benefits.
Proprietary Blends: The specific quantities of many key ingredients are not disclosed, making it difficult to know if you are receiving clinically effective doses.
Missing Nutrients: AG1 notably lacks significant amounts of vitamin D and iron, two nutrients that are commonly deficient in adults. The company offers a separate D3+K2 supplement for purchase.
Potential Digestive Issues: Some users, particularly those with sensitive stomachs, report experiencing side effects like bloating, gas, and diarrhea, which may be linked to the high probiotic count or inulin content.
Not a Whole Food Replacement: Health experts and dietitians emphasize that AG1 is not a substitute for eating whole fruits and vegetables, which provide fiber and other compounds in ways a powder cannot replicate.
Risk for Certain Individuals: The supplement is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, children under 18, or those with certain medical conditions or on specific medications (e.g., autoimmune diseases, kidney disease, blood thinners).

AG1 vs. Other Greens Powders: A Comparison


Feature	AG1	Live it Up Super Greens	Primal Greens
Cost (Monthly)	High ($79/month)	Moderate ($39.99/month)	Moderate (Subscription discount available)
Ingredient Count	75+ ingredients	~30 ingredients	Proprietary blends
Proprietary Blends	Yes, limited transparency	Yes, but some details available	Yes, limited transparency
Certification	NSF Certified for Sport®	Third-Party Tested	Third-Party Tested
Vitamin D / Iron	Not included	Not included	Low iron, no Vitamin D
Organic Ingredients	Contains some, but not fully certified organic	Organic Greens	Contains organic ingredients

Who Should Drink AG1 Daily?

Deciding if AG1 is right for you depends on your individual health profile, lifestyle, and budget. AG1 may be a suitable option for:

Athletes or highly active individuals with increased nutrient needs.
People with dietary gaps, such as those who struggle to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables daily.
Frequent travelers who need a convenient way to get their essential nutrients on the go.
Individuals seeking an all-in-one supplement to simplify their daily routine and replace multiple pills.

Conversely, if you already have a balanced diet rich in whole foods, the high cost of AG1 may outweigh the marginal benefits. Those with health conditions, on specific medications, or who are pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before starting.

Conclusion: Is AG1 a Worthy Daily Habit?

AG1 is a high-quality, comprehensive supplement that can help fill nutritional gaps and support energy and gut health, particularly for those with less-than-optimal diets or high nutrient demands. However, its significant cost, lack of transparency regarding ingredient dosages, and missing key nutrients mean it is not a perfect solution for everyone.

Ultimately, AG1 should be seen as a complement to, not a replacement for, a healthy diet. If you have the budget and find it helps establish other positive health habits, it could be a worthwhile daily routine. For others, more affordable alternatives or focusing on whole-food sources might offer better value. As with any new supplement, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.

Authority Link: For more information on supplement quality and testing, visit the official website for NSF Certified for Sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

AG1 is an all-in-one greens powder that combines vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and superfoods to support daily nutrition, gut health, energy levels, and immunity.

For most healthy adults, daily consumption is considered safe. However, AG1 is not recommended for individuals under 18, pregnant or nursing women, or those with certain health conditions or on specific medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting.

Taste is subjective, but AG1 typically has an earthy, slightly sweet flavor with notes of pineapple and vanilla from natural flavorings. While some find it pleasant, others describe an overpowering sweetness from stevia or a gritty texture.

No, AG1 is not a substitute for eating whole fruits and vegetables. While it provides many important nutrients, it lacks the high fiber content and full nutritional profile of whole foods.

Some users report mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially when first starting. This may be due to the probiotics or fiber content. High doses of certain vitamins might also cause issues in sensitive individuals.

Whether AG1 is worth the price depends on your diet and needs. For those with nutrient deficiencies or high demands (like athletes), it may be beneficial. For individuals who already eat a balanced diet, more affordable alternatives or prioritizing whole foods might be a better investment.

The high cost of AG1 is attributed to its extensive list of over 75 ingredients, third-party testing (including NSF Certification), and brand marketing.