Understanding the Risks: Are there any side effects of AG1?

November 8, 2025 •

5 min read

While many users report benefits from AG1, others experience negative reactions, particularly digestive upset, suggesting individual tolerance varies significantly. Before integrating this popular greens powder into your routine, it is crucial to understand if there are any side effects of AG1 that may impact your health.

Quick Summary

AG1 may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas, especially during the initial adjustment period. Other potential issues include specific ingredient sensitivities, high vitamin levels, and risks for individuals with certain health conditions or those on medication.

Key Points

Gastrointestinal Issues are Common: Many users experience bloating, gas, and digestive upset when first starting AG1, largely due to the high levels of probiotics and prebiotics.
High Vitamin Levels Exist: AG1 contains megadoses of certain vitamins that can exceed daily recommended values, posing a potential risk of nutrient toxicity, particularly if combined with other supplements.
Specific Ingredients Cause Concerns: Controversial ingredients like soy lecithin have been linked to potential gut microbiome disruption, while certain adaptogens are risky for specific conditions like pregnancy or autoimmune disorders.
Medication Interactions Are Possible: AG1 can interact negatively with prescription medications, including blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and hormonal birth control, making professional consultation essential.
Not a Whole Food Substitute: AG1 is a supplement and should not be used as a replacement for a balanced diet rich in whole fruits, vegetables, and other foods.
Liver Harm Reports Noticed: Some FDA adverse event reports have raised concerns about potential liver harm in AG1 users, though causation has not been definitively established.

Introduction to AG1

AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, is a popular greens powder supplement that combines vitamins, minerals, superfoods, prebiotics, probiotics, and adaptogens. Marketed as a convenient daily nutritional boost, it is widely promoted to support gut health, energy, and overall well-being. However, as with any potent supplement, it is wise for consumers to look beyond the marketing and examine the potential risks. Despite its benefits for some, there are documented side effects and contraindications that prospective and current users should be aware of.

Common Digestive Side Effects

One of the most frequently reported side effects of AG1 is gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort, which can manifest in several ways.

Bloating, Gas, and Diarrhea

Many users experience bloating, gas, or diarrhea, particularly when first starting AG1. This is often a normal adjustment period for the digestive system reacting to the new high concentration of probiotics and prebiotics. AG1's 'Next Gen' formula, for instance, significantly increased its probiotic count, which may cause GI distress in some individuals. Prebiotic fibers like inulin can also be a culprit, especially for those sensitive to high-FODMAP foods. For this reason, some health professionals suggest starting with a smaller dose to minimize these effects as your body adjusts.

Stomach Upset

Some users have reported general stomach upset or nausea after consuming AG1. The supplement's numerous ingredients and high concentrations may be challenging for sensitive stomachs to process. It is generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, but this can exacerbate stomach sensitivity for some, who might benefit from taking it with or after a light meal.

Ingredient-Specific Risks

Beyond general digestive issues, certain ingredients within AG1's proprietary blends raise specific concerns for some individuals.

High Vitamin Doses and Nutrient Toxicity

AG1 contains exceptionally high doses of certain vitamins, including some B vitamins, which can exceed the recommended daily allowance significantly. While the body often excretes excess water-soluble vitamins, excessively high levels of some nutrients can pose risks. For example, high vitamin C intake increases the risk of kidney stones in certain people, and high biotin can interfere with thyroid test results. Since specific amounts in proprietary blends are not disclosed, it's difficult to know exact dosages.

Questionable Additives: Soy Lecithin

One of the most concerning ingredients for some experts is soy lecithin, a prominent component of AG1. It is used as an emulsifier and has been linked to potential harm to the gut microbiome and could disrupt microbial diversity. This disruption may contribute to inflammation and metabolic syndrome in some individuals. Furthermore, the metabolism of phosphatidylcholine from soy lecithin has been linked to cardiovascular disease risk.

Adaptogens and Other Botanicals

AG1 includes several adaptogens and botanical extracts, such as ashwagandha and licorice root, which may not be appropriate for everyone. Licorice root can cause hypokalemia and hypertension in high doses. The supplement also contains alfalfa, which some individuals with autoimmune conditions like lupus should avoid as it can trigger immune activity.

Potential Allergens

For those with sensitivities, ingredients like wheatgrass and green tea extract can trigger allergic reactions. Some users have reported symptoms ranging from headaches to more severe allergic responses. The product also contains soy, which is an allergen.

Comparison of Potential AG1 Side Effects


Side Effect Type	Common Examples	Causes within AG1	Risk Level	Mitigation Strategy
Gastrointestinal	Bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, cramps	High concentration of probiotics and prebiotics (inulin).	Common, often temporary.	Start with a smaller dose; take with food if sensitive.
Allergic Reactions	Headaches, dizziness, hives, cramping, anaphylaxis	Wheatgrass, green tea extract, soy lecithin.	Low but potentially severe.	Check for known allergens; consult doctor if sensitivity is a concern.
Medication Interactions	Affected blood thinners, blood pressure meds, immunosuppressants.	Vitamin E, adaptogens (ashwagandha, licorice root), other ingredients.	Moderate to High, can be dangerous.	Always consult a doctor before use, especially if on medication.
Nutrient Toxicity	Kidney stones (Vitamin C), impaired thyroid tests (biotin).	Very high doses of specific vitamins exceeding daily values.	Low for most, moderate for certain conditions.	Avoid combining with other multivitamins; consult a healthcare professional.
Organ-Specific	Liver harm reports (elevated enzymes)	Not confirmed, but reported through FDA adverse events.	Very Low but serious.	Discontinue use if symptoms appear and consult a doctor.

Contraindications and Drug Interactions

Certain individuals and circumstances warrant specific caution or complete avoidance of AG1:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of AG1's adaptogens and botanicals (like licorice root and rhodiola) has not been confirmed for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Autoimmune Conditions: Individuals with autoimmune diseases such as lupus should avoid AG1 due to the inclusion of alfalfa, which can stimulate the immune system.
End-Stage Kidney Disease: Those with end-stage kidney disease should not take AG1 due to its potassium and phosphorus content, which can be problematic for this condition.
Children and Minors: AG1 is not recommended for anyone under 18.
Medication Interactions: AG1 can interact negatively with several medications, including blood thinners (like warfarin), immunosuppressants, hormonal birth control, and some antidepressants. It is vital to consult a doctor if you take any prescription medication before starting AG1.

Reported Liver Enzyme Concerns

In recent years, there have been adverse event reports filed with the U.S. FDA regarding elevated hepatic enzymes and signs of liver harm among some AG1 users. While it is important to note that the FDA has not investigated these reports to confirm a direct causal link, the possibility of liver-related issues exists. The company dismisses these reports as 'extremely rare,' but it remains a concerning factor for some consumers. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or who experience related symptoms should seek medical advice immediately and cease taking the supplement.

The Importance of Moderation and Professional Advice

AG1 is not a replacement for a balanced, whole-food diet. Nutritionists and dietitians consistently emphasize that real fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods provide essential fiber and hydration that no powder can fully replicate. A supplement like AG1 should be seen as a complement to a healthy diet, not a substitute. Since AG1's proprietary blends do not list exact ingredient quantities, it is impossible to know if the dose of any given ingredient is effective or potentially problematic for a sensitive individual. Before starting AG1, it is essential to have a frank discussion with a trusted healthcare professional to assess its safety and appropriateness for your specific health profile. You can also explore different superfood powder brands for alternatives that might suit your needs better.

Conclusion

For many healthy adults, AG1 may provide a convenient way to supplement nutrient intake, and it is certified by third parties for quality and safety. However, the potential for side effects, including digestive upset, high vitamin doses, and specific ingredient concerns, cannot be overlooked. Serious contraindications exist for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, on certain medications, or have pre-existing conditions like autoimmune disease or kidney issues. The lack of transparency regarding proprietary blend ingredient amounts and unverified reports of liver harm also warrant careful consideration. Consulting a healthcare provider is the most prudent step to ensure that adding AG1 to your routine is a safe choice for your individual health.

Outbound Link

For more detailed information on supplement interactions, please visit the Medical News Today review.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common side effects reported are gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, particularly during the first few weeks of use as the body adjusts to the high concentration of probiotics and prebiotics.

No, AG1 is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It contains adaptogens like licorice root and rhodiola, for which there is insufficient safety research concerning these populations.

Yes, AG1 can interact with various medications, including blood thinners (due to Vitamin E), certain immunosuppressants, hormonal birth control, and some blood pressure and diabetes medications. You must consult a doctor if you are on any medication.

AG1 contains alfalfa, which may stimulate the immune system and is generally not recommended for people with autoimmune conditions like lupus.

AG1 delivers very high doses of certain vitamins. While not always harmful, there is a risk of nutrient toxicity, especially if combined with other supplements. For example, high vitamin C intake can increase kidney stone risk.

Bloating can result from the high dose of probiotics and prebiotic fibers like inulin in AG1. These ingredients feed gut bacteria, and the resulting gas can cause discomfort, especially during the initial adjustment phase.

No, AG1 is not a substitute for eating whole fruits and vegetables. Experts emphasize that supplements should only complement a balanced diet, not replace whole food sources of nutrients, fiber, and hydration.