AG1 review: A look at claims, formula, taste, and more with expert insight | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, is a premium greens powder supplement designed to provide daily foundational nutrition. Rich in nutrients derived from fruits and vegetables, this product offers a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and adaptogenic herbs. AG1 claims this comprehensive formula can address multiple areas of health, potentially replacing the need for several standalone supplements.

AG1 has become one of the most well-known greens powders on the market. However, effective marketing doesn’t always equate to a product being worth its price tag. In this article, we’ll dive into AG1’s claims, scrutinize the ingredients list, and determine if this supplement justifies the cost. Our goal is to provide expert insights into AG1’s potential to live up to its promises and help you decide if it’s a worthwhile investment for your personal health and fitness journey.

Compare AG1

	AG1	Bloom Greens	Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens	Gainful Daily Performance Greens	Legion Genesis
Rating	3.5/5	2.6/5	3.7/5	3.2/5	3.9/5
Cost per serving	$3.30 ($2.63 with subscription)	$1.33 ($1.17 with subscription)	$1.53 ($1.38 with subscription)	$1.50	$2.00 ($1.40 with subscription
Key ingredients	Organic spirulina, ashwagandha root extract, rhodiola root extract, Lactobacillus acidophilus	Organic barley grass powder, organic spirulina powder, blue agave inulin, probiotic blend	Organic spirulina, organic chlorella, organic acacia fiber	Organic spirulina, chlorella, inulin	Organic spirulina, astragalus root extract, reishi mushroom fruit powder
Dose	1 scoop (12 grams)	1 scoop (5.05 grams)	1 scoop (15.5 grams)	1 packet (13.7 grams)	1 scoop (21.1 grams)

What is AG1?

AG1 is a greens powder that aims to provide a once-a-day, all-in-one nutritional solution to an on-the-go lifestyle. The supplement has a nutrient-dense formula composed of 75 vitamins, minerals, whole-food sourced superfoods, dairy-free probiotics, and adaptogens. AG1 contains several superfood blends, including: Nutrient-Dense Extracts, Herbs & Antioxidants, Digestive Enzyme & Super Mushroom Complex, and Alkaline, Nutrient-Dense Raw Superfood Complex.

Although not regulated by the FDA, AG1 is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning that it’s been proven to not contain unsafe levels of contaminants, prohibited substances, or masking agents, and that what’s on the label matches what’s in the product. This is important for professional athletes who adhere to strict rules regarding supplements and nutritional products.

In addition to being a product, AG1 is also a brand. The company Athletic Greens was founded in 2010 in New Zealand. Its goal was to help people take ownership of their health by providing them with comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition. The company is still called Athletic Greens, but the name of the greens powder changed to AG1 in 2021. According to the brand’s website, AG1 is for anyone seeking daily nutritional insurance, from the health journey beginner to elite athlete.

Specs

AG1 overview

If you read an Athletic Greens review before the product was rebranded to AG1, you can rest assured knowing that the only change is the name. Below we’ll dive into the ingredients, price, policies you need to be aware of, and how AG1 compares to other greens powders on the market.

AG1 prices

AG1 prices vary based on whether or not you opt for a subscription, as well as which product (pouch or travel pack) you choose. It breaks down like this:

• One-time purchase (30 servings): Pouch $99, travel pack $109
• Single subscription (30 servings delivered monthly): Pouch $79 per month, travel pack $89 per month
• Double subscription (60 servings delivered monthly): Pouch $149 per month, travel pack $169 per month

Subscription details and extras

Each AG1 subscription option comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee. You can cancel subscriptions anytime by logging into your online account or contacting the AG1 customer care team. Double subscriptions are recommended for households with two daily users.

• Single pouch subscription comes with a free starter kit, including a premium canister, shaker bottle, five travel packs, and a year’s supply of vitamin D3 + K2
• Double pouch subscriptions come with a free starter kit, including a premium canister, two shaker bottles, five travel packs, and a year’s supply of vitamin D3 + K2
• Single travel pack subscription includes a free starter kit, including a shaker bottle, five travel packs, and a year’s supply of vitamin D3 + K2
• Double travel pack subscription includes a free starter kit, including two shaker bottles, five travel packs, and a year’s supply of vitamin D3 + K2

Discounts and AG1 promo codes

If you’re looking to save a little more cash in your AG1 budget, it’s time to tell a friend about the greens powder. AG1’s referral program works like this: If you give your friends five free travel packs of AG1 on their first purchase, you get $15 off your next order once they place their order.

How to buy AG1

You can buy AG1 online at the AG1 website. Note that AG1 products on Amazon are sold by unauthorized third-party sellers which voids the 90-day money-back guarantee.

What experts think of AG1

We consulted with Dr. Raj Dasgupta , MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, to hear his thoughts on AG1.

“AG1 contains a variety of ingredients that have been shown to support gut health, focus and energy, healthy aging, and immune health,” Dr. Raj notes. “However, AG1 is not a magic bullet for improved health and well-being. It’s important to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and prioritize quality sleep in order to achieve optimal health.” All of these lifestyle factors are essential for optimal health, and may even help you lower your biological age .

He also adds, “It’s important that consumers know that AG1 traditionally does not contain vitamin D or iron, and it’s not a substitute for whole fruits and vegetables.”

Who should or shouldn’t take AG1

For healthy individuals, there’s little downside to adding a greens powder like AG1 to your daily routine, aside from the dent in your wallet. This product may be an effective way to fill any nutritional gaps in your diet, as well as provide additional support to those who may need it, such as athletes or older adults who have increased nutrient demands.

Despite being pricey, AG1 is all-natural, nutrient-dense, and free from most common allergens except for soy. However, while AG1’s ingredient label notes the inclusion of two soy-derived ingredients, the supplement is rigorously tested to ensure it doesn’t contain soy protein or soy trypsin inhibitors, which are the components that typically trigger allergic reactions.

People with specific medical conditions, pregnant or nursing people, and those with known allergies should consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting AG1. Additionally, individuals on a tight budget might find the cost of AG1 to be too expensive. If you already prioritize a healthy diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, then a greens powder may not be necessary.

Who should use AG1

Some demographics may specifically benefit most from using AG1 in their day-to-day routines.

Busy individuals

Adults who may not have the time or ability to consume four to five servings of fruits and vegetables daily may benefit from a greens powder such as AG1. The nutrients in this product may support healthy immune function and help prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. ( 6 )

Active individuals

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have increased nutritional demands, and a product like AG1 may help support their training, recovery, and overall well-being. ( 7 )

Older adults

Older adults may benefit from the extra nutritional support offered by AG1. As we age, our bodies have a more difficult time absorbing nutrients, so we may need additional dietary support to maintain optimal health. ( 8 )

Who AG1 might not be best for

While many can benefit from AG1, other groups may want to avoid taking the supplement.

People taking certain prescription or over-the-counter medications

Some supplements could interact with medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or causing side effects. ( 9 )

Children under 18 and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding

AG1 doesn’t recommend that anyone in these groups use its greens powder or any other dietary supplement without first consulting with a medical professional.

Individuals on a tight budget

AG1 is a pricey supplement and may be cost-prohibitive. At $99 for a 30-serving package, the cost can add up quickly, especially if used regularly. Instead, individuals on a tight budget would benefit from focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods that are more cost-effective. Prioritizing fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients without the expense of a premium supplement like AG1.

AG1 nutrition facts

There are 50 calories in every one-scoop serving (12 grams) of AG1, with 6 grams of carbs, 2 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, less than 1 gram of sugar, and no fat.

AG1 contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals, similar to the best multivitamins , that are essential for optimal health. These key micronutrients support normal growth and development, bolster the immune system, enhance cognitive function, boost energy levels, and so much more. ( 10 )

AG1 ingredients

Along with the vitamins and minerals mentioned above, AG1 includes proprietary blends of greens and other superfoods, herbs, extracts, digestive enzymes, probiotics, and more.

Alkaline, nutrient-dense raw superfood complex (7388 mg)

Organic spirulina, lecithin (65% phosphatides), organic apple powder, inulin (FOS prebiotics), organic wheat grass juice powder (leaf), organic alfalfa powder (leaf), organic chlorella powder, organic barley (Hordeum vulgare) leaf powder, acerola fruit juice powder extract (4:1), broccoli flower powder, papaya (Carica papaya) fruit powder, pineapple fruit concentrate (9:1), bilberry fruit extract (100:1), beet root powder, rose hip (Rosa canina) fruit powder (4:1), carrot root powder, spinach leaf powder, cocoa bean polyphenol extract, grape seed extract (120:1) (std. 95% OPC), green tea (Camellia sinensis) extract (leaf) (10:1), licorice root powder, lycium berry fruit extract (4:1), ginger rhizome powder, slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) bark powder, kelp whole plant powder

Nutrient Dense Extracts, Herbs & Antioxidant (2732 mg)

Alkaline pea protein isolate, citrus bioflavonoids extract, artichoke leaf extract (15:1), citric acid (anhydrous), rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) root dry extract (15:1), eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) root extract (10:1), rosemary leaf extract (4:1), milk thistle seed extract (70:1), R,S alpha-lipoic acid, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract (5:1), dandelion whole plant dry concentrate (4:1), hawthorn berry extract (10:1), beta glucans, policosanol, coenzyme Q10 (ubidecarenone), stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) leaf powder, Vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7)

Digestive Enzyme & Super Mushroom Complex (154 mg)

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) root powder extract (4:1), bromelain (dietary enzyme), burdock root powder (4:1), reishi mushroom powder, shiitake mushroom powder

Dairy Free Probiotics 7.2 billion CFU (54 mg)

Lactobacillus acidophilus – UALa-01, Bifidobacterium bifidum – UABb-10

How to use AG1

To achieve maximum nutrient absorption, it’s advised to drink AG1 on an empty stomach in the morning, at least 10 to 15 minutes before your first meal. The recommended serving is one scoop (12 grams) in eight to 10 ounces of water. AG1 team members recommend adding the powder to the water to minimize clumping.

For users who are new to greens powders, the team at AG1 recommends starting with a single teaspoon of AG1 for four days to assess how your body handles the supplement. If all goes well, increase the dose to two teaspoons for another four days. If you’re tolerating the supplement well, you can increase to a full scoop of AG1 greens after day eight.

I put the recommendation to the test. Having never experienced any digestive issues with greens powders I’ve used in the past, I added 10 ounces of cold water to the shaker bottle provided by the company followed by one scoop of the AG1 powder and mixed vigorously. Instead of consuming the mixture right away, I waited to see if any settling of the product occurred. After about 15 minutes, I noticed that there was a significant amount of sediment at the bottom of the container, indicating that the powder does not dissolve completely. If you don’t anticipate consuming AG1 in one go, I’d recommend shaking the bottle between sips or adding more water as you go to help dissolve the solution as much as possible.

Due to the ingredients of AG1, refrigeration after opening is recommended. Once the pouch is open, the contents are good for 90 days. If unopened, the AG1 product is shelf-stable until the expiration date printed on the package.

What does AG1 taste like?

AG1 has an earthy, semi-sweet flavor that some users describe as having hints of pineapple and vanilla. While the greens powder doesn’t use artificial sweeteners, it does include a small amount of the plant-derived sweetener stevia.

Since AG1 contains many whole-food sourced ingredients and live probiotics, the company says the flavor can vary slightly with each batch. Compare AG1 ingredient sourcing to a vineyard experience; the taste of AG1 can be influenced by the resources, time of year, weather conditions, or the geographical source of the ingredients.

Before trying the powder myself, I was a little skeptical of how it might taste. There’s always the lingering fear with greens powders that it will taste the way a freshly cut lawn smells. However, the first sip was a pleasant surprise. The powder had a subtle sweetness, and I could pick out the notes of vanilla and pineapple. The only minor issue is that the product doesn’t dissolve completely, resulting in a slightly gritty texture as you drink down to the bottom of your shaker bottle. But, I simply filled the bottle with more water and continued drinking.

If you’re not a fan of the earthy flavor, you can mix it with juice, put it in a smoothie, or combine it with your favorite milk.

What customers say about AG1

AG1 currently has 80 verified customer reviews on Trustpilot. Top comments favor AG1’s overall feeling, taste, and how easily it fits into a daily routine.

Alexandru G., another verified Trustpilot customer, writes: “It definitely worked for me, I feel younger overall, I’m noticing better recovery after workouts (and nights out). I started experimenting with a few alternatives due to price but I will get back to this product if nothing else convinces me.”

Common themes in less positive reviews involved taste preference and opinions on subscription cost.

Matthew W. notes that price was a major obstacle in his use of AG1. “Just too expensive,” he writes. “Everyone is saying it. They need to market themselves more into the space where people can actually afford it.”

Ji M. agrees. “Well overpriced for a widely available product. Athletic Greens AG1 powder is a decent green powder that contains many necessary vitamins and it is quite tasty. However I wouldn’t recommend this product for the price. Too much. The powder is also too dusty, everytime I use it a plume of dust comes from the packet, the included drink bottle is of poor quality and hard to clean.”

Some AG1 users also report gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, bloating and other digestive issues. To mitigate the initial digestive upset, the team at AG1 recommends beginning with one teaspoon of AG1 in cold water for four days. After the initial four days, increase to two teaspoons of AG1 for an additional four days. If you’re tolerating the powder well by day eight, increase to a full scoop of AG1 greens in cold water.

AG1 benefits

AG1’s formula is designed to provide several potential health benefits. Some users share that AG1 has helped them regulate their bowel movements and enhanced their immune systems so they get sick less often. With a potent blend of vitamins and nutrients, users may also experience an energy boost and better gut health. Additionally, because AG1 contains digestive enzymes and probiotics, users may also notice improved digestion.

It’s important to remember that because these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, AG1’s actual efficacy is difficult to measure.

Things to consider before purchasing AG1

Before spending the money on a premium supplement such as AG1, here are a few key considerations.

If you’re already maintaining a balanced diet, prioritizing four to five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, a greens powder such as AG1 may be unnecessary. A great way to check and see if you’re lacking any essential nutrients is to speak with your primary healthcare provider and perform blood work. This data will provide valuable health insights, allowing you to better decide whether AG1 is worth your time and money.

On the other hand, if budget constraints aren’t an issue and you’re seeking to fill any potential nutritional gaps, or you belong to a group with increased nutritional demands like athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or older adults, AG1 may be an effective supplement for you.

Furthermore, there’s merit in talking about the accountability that comes with investing in a premium supplement like AG1. Due to its higher price point, users may feel more motivated to adopt an overall healthier lifestyle. This can translate into a consistent exercise regimen, opting for healthier meal choices, reducing the consumption of junk food, and more. If AG1 encourages you to develop healthier habits, then it really can have a tremendous impact on your overall well-being.

Alternatives to AG1

If you’re not sure whether AG1 is the right greens powder for you, there are a few other good greens powders to consider. We suggest Legion Genesis and Bloom Nutrition Greens & Superfoods.

Ultimately, choosing the right greens powder depends on your individual needs and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as ingredient transparency, serving size, flavor options, and unique ingredients like added fiber and probiotics when making your decision.

Final thoughts: Is AG1 worth it?

With high-quality sourcing of vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, herbs, and more in one shakeable scoop, AG1 is an intriguing product. The only problem is that it’s hard to measure the actual benefits that a greens powder provides. This is especially true if you’re already consuming a well-balanced diet that’s rich in fruits and veggies. However, if a premium supplement like AG1 provides you with the peace of mind knowing you’re supporting your health, or it encourages you to develop healthier lifestyle habits, then it can definitely be worth the investment.

Our overall score of 3.5 out of 5 stars for AG1 is based on several factors. We considered the overall value AG1 provides, taking into account the price and dose, the quality of the ingredients (whether the supplement contains organic ingredients, artificial ingredients, the actual benefits of the ingredients), third-party testing, and finally considerations like taste, texture, and customer reviews.

When we asked Dr. Raj his final thoughts, he reminded us that AG1 is no substitute for a well-balanced diet.

“The bottom line point is that AG1 is marketed as an easy way to boost your intake of important vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds,” he says. “While it may be helpful for some, it is not for everyone—including those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain prescription medications, and those who have certain medical conditions. AG1 still needs more research to confirm safety and effectiveness given the cost to purchase AG1.”

FAQs

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

Our experts

Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN

Victoria uses her extensive nutrition and performance knowledge every day. She has a Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She’s an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago and Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses. She also sits on the advisory board for both the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the National Advisory Council of the First Responder Institute.

Kelly Uhler

Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.

Jessica Coulon

Jessica is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends™ who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.

Lily Moe

Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.