Key Nutrients Completely Missing from AG1
While marketed as an all-in-one nutritional drink, AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, intentionally omits several key nutrients from its daily powder formula. Understanding these exclusions is vital for anyone relying on the product as part of their health regimen. The company's reasoning for these omissions is often tied to absorption, stability, or the varying needs of individuals.
Vitamin D
AG1 does not contain vitamin D in its greens powder. The company's rationale is that vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, and for optimal absorption, it should be taken with a fat source. To address this gap, AG1 offers a separate, oil-based vitamin D3+K2 supplement, sold separately. The exclusion allows for more flexible and potentially better-absorbed dosing, as individual needs for vitamin D vary widely based on sun exposure, diet, and location.
Iron
Another major omission from AG1 is iron. Iron is a critical mineral for growth, development, and organ function. The decision to leave it out is strategic. Iron requirements differ significantly between men and premenopausal women, and excessive iron can cause adverse side effects like stomach pain and nausea. The company likely avoids a universal dose to prevent over-supplementation in those who don't need it. People with iron deficiencies will need to obtain this mineral from other sources.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
AG1 does not include omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which are crucial for brain, heart, and eye health. Similar to its reasoning for vitamin D, the company points out that these fatty acids are sensitive to air, light, and heat, and are best delivered in a more stable format. Consequently, they offer a separate, high-quality omega-3 supplement in softgel form.
Minerals Present in Low Amounts
In addition to the entirely missing nutrients, AG1 contains some minerals in relatively low concentrations compared to daily recommendations. This is a key distinction from a complete multivitamin, which typically aims to meet or exceed daily values for a wide range of micronutrients. For those with specific deficiencies, these small amounts may not be sufficient.
Calcium
AG1 contains some calcium, but at only about 9% of the daily value per serving. While many greens powders struggle with calcium content, relying solely on AG1 would leave a significant gap for this essential mineral, crucial for bone health and muscle function.
Potassium
With approximately 6% of the daily value for potassium, AG1 does not provide a substantial amount of this electrolyte. Potassium is vital for nerve function and muscle contractions, and most of a person's needs should come from dietary sources like bananas, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
Magnesium
AG1 provides a small amount of magnesium, around 6-7% of the daily value. Magnesium plays a role in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, making this a notable, though minor, gap. Like other low-dose minerals, most of the body's magnesium needs will need to be met through food or a separate supplement.
AG1 Nutritional Content vs. a Standard Multivitamin
| Feature | AG1 | Standard Multivitamin | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missing Nutrients | Vitamin D, Iron, Omega-3s, significant Fiber | Typically includes all standard vitamins and minerals | AG1 excludes key nutrients based on stability and absorption |
| High-Dose Nutrients | Very high doses of Vitamin B12, C, and E | Varies by brand and formulation | High doses in AG1 meant to fill common dietary gaps |
| Ingredient Complexity | Includes superfood blends, adaptogens, probiotics, digestive enzymes | Focuses primarily on synthetic vitamins and minerals | AG1 provides a broader, more complex formula beyond just basic vitamins |
| Probiotic Count | 7.2 billion CFUs (older formula) or 10 billion CFU (Next Gen) | May or may not contain probiotics; amounts vary | AG1 prioritizes gut health with a specific probiotic blend |
| Cost | Significantly higher per serving than most multivitamins | Often more affordable and widely available | AG1's price reflects its more complex, all-in-one approach |
| Form | Powder mixed with water | Pill, capsule, or gummy | AG1 is a drinkable format, while multivitamins are typically pills |
AG1's Formulation Philosophy: Beyond a Simple Multivitamin
AG1's product strategy is not to be a comprehensive multivitamin in a traditional sense but rather a foundational nutritional supplement designed to fill common gaps found in modern diets. This explains some of the deliberate exclusions and inclusions.
Bioavailability and Absorption
AG1 focuses on creating a bioavailable product, meaning the nutrients are in forms the body can easily absorb. The company argues that certain nutrients, like vitamin D and omega-3s, are better absorbed when delivered in specific formats (e.g., oil-based drops for vitamin D), which is why they are sold separately. For other nutrients like B vitamins, the latest 'Next Gen' formula uses more bioavailable forms.
Target Audience and Specific Needs
The AG1 formula is designed for a broad, general audience. By leaving out potentially high-risk or individually sensitive nutrients like iron, the company can cater to more people without requiring highly personalized dosages. This means that while AG1 covers many bases, individuals with specific health concerns or diagnosed deficiencies may need targeted supplements to meet their needs.
Addressing Nutritional Gaps: What to Do Next
For those who use AG1, recognizing and addressing its nutritional gaps is key to a complete wellness strategy.
- For Vitamin D and Omega-3s: Consider purchasing AG1's separate D3+K2 drops and Omega-3 softgels, or find high-quality alternatives from another reputable brand.
- For Iron: If you are at risk for or have an iron deficiency, consult a doctor about supplementation. Ensure you get adequate iron through dietary sources like red meat, beans, and spinach.
- For Low Minerals (Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium): Focus on a whole-food diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens to naturally boost your intake of these essential minerals. AG1 should not be your sole source.
- For Fiber: AG1 contains only 2g of fiber, a minimal amount. Incorporate plenty of fiber-rich foods like whole grains, legumes, and seeds into your diet to meet the recommended daily intake.
Conclusion
AG1 offers a comprehensive blend of many vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds, making it a powerful supplement for filling common dietary shortfalls. However, it is not a complete, one-and-done solution for all nutritional needs. The most significant omissions are vitamin D, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which the company addresses with separate products or advises individuals to seek elsewhere. Additionally, several minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium are present in relatively low concentrations. The key to maximizing the benefits of AG1 lies in understanding its limitations and pairing it with a healthy, whole-food-based diet and other targeted supplements as needed. It serves as a strong nutritional foundation but is not a substitute for a balanced eating plan or a replacement for a traditional, complete multivitamin. For further context on nutrient absorption and bioavailability, research from reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health can be insightful.
