Skip to content

What Not to Take with AG1: Medications, Supplements, and More

4 min read

Over 90% of AG1 users report feeling more energy and improved digestion after three months, but mixing it with certain items can compromise its benefits and safety. To maximize the supplement's advantages and avoid risks, it is crucial to understand what not to take with AG1, especially considering its potent, multi-ingredient formula.

Quick Summary

This guide details important contraindications and interactions with AG1, outlining specific supplements, medications, foods, and conditions to be aware of for safe consumption.

Key Points

  • Blood Thinner Alert: Avoid taking AG1 if you are on blood thinners like Warfarin due to potential interactions with Vitamin E.

  • Check Your Meds: Always consult a doctor if you are on medications for conditions like diabetes, hormonal issues, or autoimmune diseases before using AG1.

  • Pregnant or Nursing? Avoid: AG1 is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because some ingredients lack safety data for these stages.

  • Beware of Over-Supplementation: Do not combine AG1 with other high-dose multivitamins, probiotics, or single-nutrient supplements to prevent potential nutrient overdose.

  • Mix It Right: Never mix AG1 with hot or highly acidic liquids, as heat can degrade beneficial probiotics and enzymes.

  • Time It Wisely: For maximum absorption, take AG1 on an empty stomach and consider waiting a period before drinking coffee or eating high-fiber foods.

  • Know Your Allergies and Conditions: Individuals with autoimmune conditions (like lupus due to alfalfa) or end-stage kidney disease (due to potassium/phosphorus) should avoid AG1.

In This Article

Introduction to AG1 and the Importance of Caution

AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, is a comprehensive daily health supplement packed with over 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole-food sourced ingredients. While it is designed to simplify daily nutrition by combining a multivitamin, multimineral, and probiotic into one drink, this complexity is precisely why users must be cautious about combining it with other substances. The high potency of certain nutrients and the presence of adaptogenic herbs mean that interactions with medications, other supplements, and even certain health conditions can occur, leading to reduced efficacy or potential side effects. Knowing what to avoid is a key part of maintaining a safe and effective daily routine.

Medications with Potential for Interaction

Before adding AG1 to your routine, anyone on prescription medication should consult a healthcare professional. Some ingredients within the blend can interfere with prescription drug functions, posing health risks.

Blood Thinners

Individuals taking blood thinners like Warfarin should be extremely cautious. AG1 contains Vitamin E, which has a natural blood-thinning effect. Taking both could increase the risk of bleeding or stroke.

Hormonal and Diabetes Medications

Certain ingredients in AG1, including adaptogens and plant extracts, may affect hormonal balance or blood sugar regulation. This means hormonal birth control, diabetes medications, and thyroid hormones could be affected. Consistent monitoring and medical advice are essential to ensure these vital medications work correctly.

Immunosuppressants and Other Prescriptions

For those on immunosuppressants, AG1’s immune-supporting ingredients could counteract the medication’s purpose. Similarly, some components may interact with sedatives and certain antidepressants, so a doctor's review of the full ingredient list is non-negotiable.

Supplements to Avoid While Taking AG1

Since AG1 is a broad-spectrum supplement, taking additional vitamins or minerals can lead to over-supplementation, which can have negative health consequences.

Other Multivitamins and High-Dose Singles

AG1 already contains high doses of many vitamins, such as B12 and biotin. Combining it with another daily multivitamin or specific high-dose single-nutrient supplements, like additional B vitamins or zinc, risks exceeding safe upper intake levels. This is known as nutrient overdose and can cause adverse side effects.

Fiber Supplements

For optimal absorption, AG1 should ideally be consumed on an empty stomach and not mixed with excessive fiber. High-fiber supplements like psyllium husk can interfere with the body's ability to properly absorb the diverse range of nutrients in AG1, effectively making your expensive supplement less effective.

Food and Drink Restrictions

The way AG1 is prepared and consumed can also impact its effectiveness and safety. Certain combinations should be avoided.

  • Hot Liquids: Mixing AG1 with hot water or other hot beverages can destroy the beneficial probiotics and enzymes in the powder, compromising its gut health benefits.
  • Highly Acidic Beverages: Extremely acidic drinks can also negatively affect the integrity of AG1's ingredients. Stick to cold water for the best results.
  • Coffee: While AG1’s website suggests it can be taken with coffee, Amazon customer service suggests waiting 30-60 minutes to avoid potential interference with absorption. Caffeine can also be harsh on a sensitive stomach, especially combined with AG1's rich nutrient profile.
  • High-Fiber Foods: Similar to fiber supplements, consuming AG1 alongside very high-fiber foods can inhibit nutrient absorption. It's recommended to take AG1 on an empty stomach for maximum benefit and have your meal later.

Special Considerations for Health Conditions

Certain health conditions require special consideration and, in some cases, prohibit the use of AG1 altogether. A doctor's consultation is paramount.

Autoimmune Conditions

Individuals with autoimmune diseases like lupus should avoid AG1 due to the presence of alfalfa. Alfalfa can stimulate the immune system, potentially worsening symptoms. Spirulina and chlorella may also need to be limited.

Kidney Disease

For those with end-stage kidney disease, AG1 is not recommended. It contains potassium and phosphorus, which can dangerously increase to unsafe levels in individuals with this condition, potentially leading to heart problems.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

AG1's website explicitly advises against its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ingredients like Rhodiola and licorice root have not been proven safe for these life stages and can even pose risks.

Comparison of Potential Conflicts with AG1

Category Item(s) to Use Caution With Primary Reason for Caution
Medications Blood Thinners (e.g., Warfarin) Contains Vitamin E, which can increase bleeding risk.
Medications Hormonal Birth Control, Diabetes Meds Plant extracts may interfere with drug efficacy.
Medications Immunosuppressants Immune-boosting ingredients can counteract medication.
Supplements Other Multivitamins, Extra Zinc Risks nutrient overdose and competitive absorption.
Supplements High-Fiber Supplements (Psyllium Husk) Inhibits optimal nutrient absorption.
Beverages Hot or Highly Acidic Liquids Damages probiotics and enzymes; reduces efficacy.
Food High-Fiber Meals, Coffee (Right Away) Can hinder nutrient absorption; better to take on empty stomach.
Health Conditions Lupus, Autoimmune Diseases Alfalfa may worsen symptoms.
Health Conditions End-Stage Kidney Disease High potassium and phosphorus levels are risky.
Populations Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women Safety of certain ingredients is unproven or risky.

Conclusion: Prioritize Safety and Medical Advice

AG1 offers a convenient way to boost daily nutrition, but its concentrated, multi-ingredient formula means it's not universally suitable for everyone. The list of items and conditions to use caution with is extensive, ranging from common medications to pre-existing health issues and lifestyle choices. The most critical takeaway is the necessity of consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into your routine, especially if you are taking prescription drugs, have a chronic illness, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. By being mindful of these interactions and contraindications, you can ensure AG1 is a safe and beneficial addition to your wellness regimen.

For more detailed information on AG1's ingredients and suitability, please visit the official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not recommended to take your regular multivitamin with AG1. AG1 is formulated to serve as a comprehensive multivitamin and multimineral supplement itself. Taking both can lead to excessive intake of certain nutrients and risks of overdose.

No, AG1 is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The formula contains certain ingredients, such as adaptogens and herbs, that have not been adequately studied or proven safe for these life stages.

You should not mix AG1 with hot liquids like coffee or tea. The heat can damage the live probiotics and sensitive enzymes in the powder, reducing their effectiveness. Use cold or room-temperature water instead.

Yes, AG1 may interact with blood thinners like Warfarin. It contains Vitamin E, which can have a blood-thinning effect, and combining it with prescription blood thinners could increase the risk of bleeding.

Individuals with certain autoimmune conditions, including lupus, should avoid AG1. The supplement contains alfalfa, which may stimulate the immune system and potentially worsen symptoms of the disease.

It is generally advised against mixing AG1 with excessive fiber. High levels of fiber can interfere with the body's absorption of the nutrients in AG1, making the supplement less effective.

For optimal nutrient absorption, AG1 is best taken on an empty stomach, typically first thing in the morning. While it's fine to eat afterwards, waiting a short time can help maximize the formula's benefits.

AG1 is free from many major allergens like gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts, but it does contain soy. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid it.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.