The Science Behind: Is AG1 good for your gut?

October 5, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a company-sponsored clinical trial, AG1 supplementation enriched key probiotic species and showed a trend toward improved digestive quality of life after four weeks. But with so many supplements on the market, the pressing question remains: Is AG1 good for your gut?

Quick Summary

AG1 contains a blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes designed to support gut health. Company-sponsored studies indicate it can beneficially alter the gut microbiome and improve digestive symptoms, but independent validation is still lacking.

Key Points

Probiotics and Prebiotics: AG1 contains a potent 10 billion CFU blend of clinically-studied probiotics and prebiotic fibers like inulin to nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
Supports Digestion: Digestive enzymes such as bromelain and soothing ingredients in AG1 aid in nutrient breakdown and absorption, potentially helping to reduce bloating.
Clinically Studied: Company-funded research, including a 4-week placebo-controlled trial, indicates AG1 can enrich beneficial gut flora and improve digestive quality of life.
Potential Side Effects: Some users experience initial digestive discomfort like gas or bloating as their system adjusts to the probiotic and prebiotic content.
Supplement, Not Substitute: Nutrition experts and company guidance emphasize that AG1 is a supplement designed to fill nutritional gaps, not replace a balanced, whole-food diet.
Cost and Proprietary Blends: AG1 is expensive, and its proprietary blends lack transparency regarding the exact dosage of many non-probiotic ingredients, a point of contention for some experts.

AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, is a daily greens powder supplement containing over 75 vitamins, minerals, whole-food-sourced ingredients, prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. The company heavily promotes its product for gut health, but an analysis of the ingredients, available research, and user experiences is necessary to understand its true effectiveness.

The Key Ingredients Targeting Gut Health

AG1’s gut-supporting claims are primarily based on its combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes working synergistically. The latest 'Next Gen' formula, guided by scientific research, features an upgraded blend designed for enhanced gut support.

Probiotics

The probiotic blend is a core component of AG1 for gut health. The formula includes 10 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) from five clinically-studied strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, which are known for maintaining healthy gut bacteria and supporting digestive regularity. Other strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus casei LC-11, and Lactobacillus plantarum LP-115 are also included to support immune function and microbiome balance.

Prebiotics

AG1 contains prebiotic fibers such as inulin and apple powder, which nourish beneficial gut bacteria. The product also includes phytonutrients and polyphenols that can positively influence gut microbiota. Studies suggest that AG1 fermentation can increase beneficial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids, important for intestinal health.

Digestive Enzymes

AG1 includes the plant-based enzyme bromelain to assist in protein digestion, while calcium supports the normal function of digestive enzymes. This can aid in breaking down food and improving nutrient absorption.

What the Research Says About AG1 and Gut Health

Athletic Greens has funded research to support its claims regarding gut health.

Clinical Trial Findings

A company-funded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that daily AG1 supplementation for four weeks significantly increased beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum. It also showed potential for improving self-reported digestive quality-of-life scores compared to a placebo group. The trial indicated AG1 was well-tolerated.

In-Vitro (Lab) Study Findings

An in-vitro study using a model of the human gut found that AG1 could positively impact the composition and function of the gut microbiome over 48 hours. This study suggested that AG1 might induce favorable changes in gut microbial balance and function in humans. It also noted AG1's high solubility.

Limitations of Research

It is important to consider the limitations of the existing research. The clinical trial was short, and the in-vitro study was a simulation, not a human trial. Independent research has not yet confirmed long-term effects. Additionally, AG1's use of proprietary blends makes it difficult to assess the exact dosages and effectiveness of many ingredients.

AG1 vs. Traditional Probiotic Supplementation


Feature	AG1 (Greens Powder)	Dedicated Probiotic Supplement
Active Ingredients	A wide blend of 75+ ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, superfoods, prebiotics, and probiotics.	Typically contains one or more specific strains of probiotics, sometimes with prebiotics (synbiotic).
Goal	Foundational nutrition to fill nutrient gaps and support overall health, including gut health.	To target specific gut health issues or promote general gut microbial balance.
Nutrient Complexity	Delivers a broad spectrum of nutrients beyond just gut health.	Focused on a specific and typically higher concentration of probiotic cultures.
Cost	High. One of the most expensive greens powders on the market due to the number of ingredients.	Varies widely based on brand, strains, and potency, but generally can be more targeted and potentially more cost-effective for a single purpose.
Dosage Transparency	Proprietary blends hide the exact amount of each ingredient (except total CFU for probiotics).	Clearly lists the specific strains and CFU count.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Some users may experience temporary digestive issues like gas or bloating when starting AG1, which is often a normal adjustment. Ingredients like inulin can be problematic for those sensitive to FODMAPs. AG1 contains high levels of some nutrients, and while generally safe, high intake of certain vitamins like C can pose risks for some individuals. AG1 contains soy, which is a consideration for those with soy allergies.

Conclusion: Is AG1 a Good Choice for Gut Health?

AG1 appears to offer support for gut health through its blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. Company-sponsored studies suggest it can positively affect the gut microbiome and potentially improve digestive comfort. Many users also report better digestion and reduced bloating.

However, AG1 should be seen as a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet. The high cost and lack of transparency regarding the exact dosages of many ingredients in proprietary blends are notable drawbacks. Consulting a healthcare professional before using AG1 is advisable, especially for individuals with health conditions or those taking other medications. For those seeking an all-in-one supplement to address nutritional gaps and support gut health, and for whom the cost is acceptable, AG1 may be a beneficial option.

For more details on the importance of prioritizing whole foods, explore resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to help build a strong nutritional foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

AG1's probiotic blend contains five clinically-studied strains, totaling 10 billion CFUs, including Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, which help promote beneficial gut flora, improve digestion, and reduce bloating.

Yes, many users report a reduction in bloating, and company-sponsored research has noted a trend toward improved digestive quality of life. This is attributed to its blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.

AG1 contains prebiotic fibers such as inulin and apple powder. These components act as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping them to thrive.

Some individuals may experience temporary gastrointestinal discomfort, such as gas or bloating, when they first begin taking AG1. This is a normal adjustment period for the body's microbiome.

No, AG1 is not a replacement for a diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables. While it contains some fiber, a single scoop only provides 2 grams, which is significantly less than the daily recommendation from whole food sources.

Company-funded clinical and in-vitro studies have shown that AG1 can positively impact the gut microbiome and improve digestive symptoms. However, independent, long-term studies are needed to further confirm these findings.

Some ingredients, including the prebiotic inulin, are high in FODMAPs and may cause issues for sensitive individuals. Starting with a half-dose and slowly increasing is often recommended to help the body adjust.