The results are in and the Athletic Greens review is up! We dive deep to see if this all-in-one green drink is worth the money.
Working out and staying active benefits the body immensely – but without nutrition, a fitness regime suffers. Keeping healthy throughout life requires equal amounts of nutritious foods and physical activity.
Some athletes struggle with maintaining their routines, so they take supplements such as Athletic Greens. Specially formulated to re-energize the body and boost recovery time, these powerhouse vitamins promise an extraordinary improvement to overall wellness.
But are Athletic Greens worth it?
Read on for an Athletic Greens review, the story behind the company, and the full rundown on the AG1 extensive ingredient list.
Behind the Brand
Athletic Greens launched fourteen years ago due to the founder finding little to no answers to his health problems during medical appointments.
Founder Chris Ashender suffered from sleep issues, troublesome gut health, and a weak immune system. He spent his twenties trying to find a nutritionist or doctor who could help but never found any answers.
In 2008 he traveled to a clinic in Arizona, where he underwent specialized tests to get to the bottom of it. The test results were shocking – his micronutrient levels were dangerously low. Even though he tried to eat a balanced diet and use supplements, his body was only absorbing a fraction of the nutrients he needed to survive.
He left the clinic with a strict pill regimen of 50 to 60 doses a day. The cure for his nutritional issues cost Ashenden about $100 daily.
Two years later, he founded Athletic Greens with a specific goal in mind. The company strives to provide everyone with convenient, comprehensive nutrition every day.
Going by the numbers, Athletic Greens is working valiantly to meet that goal. In January of 2022, the company raised one hundred and fifteen million dollars in investor funding and has a valuation of over a billion dollars.
In twelve years, AG1 has become the best-selling foundational nutrition product worldwide.
What Are Athletic Greens Exactly?
Athletic Greens are a supplement powder mixed with a myriad of powdered and dried ingredients.
On its website, the company claims that the powder is made from the highest quality ingredients and is constantly evolving based on the latest nutritional research. AG1 contains seventy-five different nutrients, minerals, and vitamins in an ultra-convenient powdered drink mix.
Athletic Greens asserts that their chosen ingredients provide maximum efficiency and bioavailability. The company believes this approach offers its customers the highest quality nutritional supplement available.
AG1 offers comprehensive nutrition that combines all the minerals, vitamins, and probiotics your body needs. Just use one scoop (or a convenient travel packet) and eight ounces of water. All you have to do is mix them, drink up, and you are good to go.
This supplement is suitable for athletes, but Athletic Greens caters to anyone who wants to ensure they are getting enough nutrients in their diet. It is Keto, Paleo, and Vegan friendly.
AG1 has no artificial colors or flavors, no preservatives or sweeteners, and no GMOs. Athletic Greens are also free of gluten, eggs, added sugars, nuts, and dairy. According to their website, AG1 helps boost energy, promote gut health, and support immunity.
The product comes from a TGA-registered facility. The Therapeutic Good Administration is a regulatory agency in Australia. It is a part of the Department of Health and regulates the quality, advertising, and supply of medical devices, blood products, medicines, and pathology devices.
Customer Reviews – What Do Real Users Say?
AG1 is one of the most-reviewed supplement products on the market. Famous athletes, health experts, and general consumers all rave about the wonders of AG1.
Professional triathlete Angela Naeth, a survivor of Lyme disease, states that AG1 helps her recover after extensive runs or arduous workouts each morning. NCAA referee and mother of two Kristen Bell uses Athletic Greens to boost energy throughout the day and keep her immune system strong.
Most consumers praise Athletic Greens for its feel-good ingredients that support alertness and gut health. One user states that they are 63 and use AG1 to fuel their kickboxing and cycling exercise regimes!
Although there are only a few negative reviews of AG1, the overwhelming complaint is the taste and texture of the product. Negative reviewers dislike the gritty texture of the powder and the bitter taste (even when mixed with water).
Athletic Greens Ingredients
When trying a new supplement, the first place to start researching is its ingredient list. Ingredients are the blueprint that explains what a nutritional product offers.
The sheer quantity of ingredients in Athletic Greens is impressive. It contains a bevy of natural goodness that includes many familiar vitamins and minerals and some novel components new to the supplement market.
Below is a list of ingredients that pack a powerful nutritional punch in this famous green powder and their benefits.
Vitamins
Vitamins allow the body to regulate itself and function properly. While most necessary nutrients appear naturally in food and the environment, some individuals may not receive enough vitamins consistently.
Nutritional vitamins are essential organic micronutrients that allow human metabolisms to operate. They contribute to normal cell function as well as cell growth and development.
Athletic Greens contain fifteen vitamins in one convenient green powder.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Biotin (Vitamin B7)
- Bromelain
- CoQ10
- Folate
- Methylcobalamin
- Niacin (B3)
- Pantothenic Acid (B5)
- Riboflavin (B2)
- Thiamin (B1)
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K2
Most of the vitamins above reach the daily value recommended by nutritionists, but some exceed the DV. Vitamin C in AG1, for example, is 467% of the daily recommended value for the average person.
Vitamin C boosts the immune system and increases energy – one of the many reasons why so many people love AG1.
Minerals
Minerals are just as essential as vitamins to help the body survive and thrive. Minerals are inorganic elements found in water, soil, and edible plants and animals.
Along with electrolytes, at least twenty of these elements serve structural and functional roles in keeping the body up and running.
Athletic Greens boast twelve different minerals in their once-daily formula.
- Calcium Carbonate
- Calcium Citrate
- Calcium Phosphate
- Chromium Picolinate
- Copper
- Magnesium Glycinate
- Manganese
- Potassium
- Potassium Phosphate
- Selenium
- Sodium
- Zinc Citrate
The star mineral in AG1 is Zinc Citrate – but more on that later.
Whole Food Sourced Nutrients
Whole foods refer to foods as close to their natural form as possible. While there isn’t an Athletic Greens review the Mayo Clinic has done, they do advocate for many similar foods.
Many nutritionists and health experts believe that eating whole foods is one of the best ways to prevent disease and improve overall health. Whole foods like fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and vegetables contain phytochemicals, nutrients, and fiber that processed food does not.
Athletic Greens uses nineteen different whole food ingredients in the proprietary AG1 powder.
- Acerola
- Alfalfa
- Apple
- Artichoke
- Barley Grass
- Bilberry
- Bioflavonoids
- Broccoli Flower
- Carrots
- Cocoa Bean Polyphenol Extract
- Hawthorn Berry
- Lycium Berry
- Papaya (Carica Papaya)
- Pea Protein
- Pineapple
- Spinach
- Spirulina
- Stevia
- Wheatgrass
The whole foods in AG1 help the body reach its daily nutritional goal in one 8oz glass of water.
Probiotics
Though it might sound strange, probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide a whole slew of health benefits for the human body.
Probiotics grow naturally in fermented foods like yogurt. They also may be in beauty products and dietary supplements like AG1. Some probiotics may help prevent infections and correct gut issues.
Athletic Greens uses three different probiotics in their powder blend – Bifidobacterium bifidum, Inulin, and Lactobacillus Acidophilus. Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the primary probiotics known to have anti-infection properties.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens are a class of nontoxic plants that allegedly help the body resist biological, physical, or chemical stress. These plants have benefitted many people in the holistic healing traditions of Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.
In theory, adaptogens help train the adrenal glands to better adapt to stress. Athletic Greens includes twenty-two different adaptogen ingredients in this product.
- Ashwagandha
- Astragalus
- Beet Powder
- Burdock Root
- Chlorella
- Citric Acid
- Dandelion Root
- Eleuthero Root
- Ginger
- Grape Seed Extract
- Green Tea Extract
- Kelp
- Lecithin
- Licorice
- Milk Thistle
- Policosanol
- Reishi Mushroom
- Rhodiola
- Rose Hips
- Rosemary
- Shiitake Mushroom
- Slippery Elm
Many of the adaptogens listed above are challenging to find and do not have an appealing taste. So, having them in a convenient powder is ideal for reaping the nutritional benefits without the unappealing flavor.
A Closer Look at AG1’s Ingredients
When a supplement reaches the price point of AG1, every ingredient counts. The patented formula has unique, ultra-clean nutrients with no allergy-triggering additives.
Below is an in-depth look at some of the impactful, relevant ingredients in the Athletic Greens formula.
CoQ10
CoQ10 is short for Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). It is an antioxidant that the body already produces on its own. CoQ10 is essential for proper cell growth and maintenance.
As people age, CoQ10 levels naturally drop. People who take cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins and those who suffer from heart disease might have lower CoQ10 levels as well.
CoQ10 deficiency can cause neurological problems that gradually increase without proper treatment and supplementation, including coordination and balance issues, muscle stiffness, abnormal eye movements, muscle contractions, poor muscle tone, kidney damage, loss of vision, and more.
Niacin
Niacin is another name for Vitamin B3, a water-soluble B vitamin. It works as a coenzyme, and over four hundred enzymes depend on the vitamin to function.
Niacin works to convert nutrients into the energy a healthy body needs. It also exerts powerful antioxidant effects and helps to create and repair DNA.
Niacin deficiency causes a medical condition called pellagra, which causes diarrhea, dermatitis, and dementia. Certain medications, genetic disorders, and nutritional malabsorption can lead to pellagra.
Each serving of AG1 has 125% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin B3.
Pantothenic Acid
Vitamin B5, or Pantothenic acid, is another water-soluble B vitamin that helps your body synthesize coenzyme A. Coenzyme A is responsible for several essential biochemical reactions necessary for survival.
Though Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare in the developed world, severe cases cause fatigue, headaches, numbness, loss of appetite, restlessness, and heartburn.
A single serving of Athletic Greens provides 80% of the DV for the average consumer.
Selenium
Though your body only needs a small amount of Selenium to function, it is still an essential part of enzymes and proteins called selenoproteins.
These selenoproteins protect against infections and cell damage. They also assist in the creation of DNA. Furthermore, selenoproteins are integral to the metabolism of thyroid hormones.
Selenium deficiency is rare, but young women and children who experience it continually develop Keshan disease. Keshan disease is known to damage the walls of your heart and cause cardiomyopathy.
AG1 provides 36% of the suggested daily value of Selenium. Most people ingest the remaining amount through fruits and veggies.
Zinc Citrate
Zinc Citrate combines zinc salt and citric acid to provide the body with zinc. People only need a trace amount of zinc daily, but it plays a significant role in many human biological processes. Zinc citrate absorbs effortlessly through oral administration.
This potent mineral promotes fast wound healing and boosts taste and smell. Zinc naturally grows in chicken and red meat. Vegetarians and vegans have a higher risk of developing a Zinc deficiency. AG1 solves that issue with 136% of the DV in every serving.
Zinc deficiency affects an estimated two billion people around the globe. It can cause impaired growth in children, immune dysfunction, increased susceptibility to infections, and pregnancy complications.
Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Bifidobacteria are probiotics that live inside the human intestine. They are good bacteria and help the human body break down food and fight off harmful bacteria.
The Athletic Greens formula contains a significant amount (UABb-10) of the Bifidobacterium Bifidum probiotic to promote recovery and reduce gut discomfort.
People with diabetes, allergic asthma, celiac disease, and dermatitis tend to have lower levels of Bifidobacteria in their intestines than healthy individuals.
Inulin
Inulin is an energy source for many plants and a prebiotic dietary fiber in humans. The body does not digest Inulin, but the gut uses it as a food source – providing more good bacteria.
A prebiotic helps the body regulate its digestion rate and protects the stomach lining. Prebiotics are not digestible like probiotics.
Athletic Greens Benefits
While the ingredients listed above all serve the body well, their function in the AG1 formula results in a comprehensive dietary powerhouse. Below are the benefits of the primary ingredients in AG1.
CoQ10
This vitamin is famous for supporting optimal heart health and athletic performance. It also helps fight fatigue and keeps your energy levels up.
Niacin
Niacin works to power your cells and repairs them when they are damaged. It is very beneficial to brain function, and it might help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Pantothenic Acid
This B vitamin helps your body process fats correctly, speeds up your metabolism, keeps energy levels high, and has links to cardiovascular health.
Without Pantothenic acid, your body cannot produce acetyl-CoA, which forms the building blocks for energy production in the body.
Selenium
Selenium is a necessary trace mineral that works to build up antioxidant defense systems in the body. Selenium intake helps keep the immune, cardiovascular, cognitive, and thyroid systems functioning.
Zinc Citrate
Zinc can help build a better immune system, but it also helps maintain healthy hormone levels and is essential for skin health. Vegetarians and vegans usually need more zinc than those who eat meat.
Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Bifidobacterium helps aid digestive health and provides critical immune support. As one of the most abundant probiotics found in the gut, it plays a substantial role in maintaining optimum health and wellbeing.
Inulin
This prebiotic may help foster a healthier metabolism and keep your blood sugar levels within the normal range.
Side Effects
Reported side effects are low among Athletic Greens consumers, but those with vitamin sensitivities should be aware of potential reactions before buying. These side effects are most likely to occur with an underlying medical condition.
Some potential side effects include:
- Bloating
- Dry Mouth
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Changes in Bowel Movements
- Headache
- Sweating
- Nausea
Remember to take the recommended daily dose. Taking more AG1 than suggested heightens the risk of adverse effects.
What Does Athletic Greens Taste Like?
Athletic Greens is not the best-tasting nutritional supplement, but it is not overly sweet like several top competitors.
There are subtle hints of vanilla, cherry, and pineapple in the drink, but there is still a distinct flavor that most green supplement drinks of this kind have.
Where To Buy AG1 Greens?
AG1 is only available through the Athletic Greens website or their Amazon page. Purchasing options include a single pack (one-time purchase) or a subscription service.
The Bottom Line: Does Athletic Greens Work?
AG1 is the highest selling daily nutritional supplement for a reason. It may not work for everyone, but many happy buyers become ecstatic by the quality of this product and have seen lots of positive results. Avid gym-lovers and passionate athletes love Athletic Greens for staying healthy and maintaining consistent energy throughout the day.
Users report significant improvements in their digestive health, energy levels, and immune system performance. Unfortunately, Athletic Greens does come with a pretty steep price tag, so it might not work for every budget.
User Reviews
I started taking athletic greens about a month-and-a-half ago it was recommended by West Virgil on his website I have done every diet known to mankind I’ve never been one to have a shake versus a meal but wow is all I can say yes it’s expensive I wish it was cheaper because then everybody could enjoy it I haven’t felt this good in 20 years I’ve dropped almost 40 pounds and it hasn’t been hard at all I feel like I’m getting all the nutrition I need it might be a funny color but it sure is tasty I can’t praise it enough
I love how it makes me feel. I suffer from extreme constipation and other stomach problems. I have been taking this product every morning like recommended. I started going to the bathroom twice a day, my stomach is no longer bloated, and I even lost some weight. I am still eating 3 meals a day. I drink this early in the morning, I don’t get hungry until 1 to 2 hours later, then I have breakfast. I have struggled for a very long time with detox teas and pills, and drinking fiber supplements. This product is amazing. I don’t have the crazy cravings I had before. Even my skin is a lot more clear and healthy looking.
I Love it! I did a lot of product comparisons before deciding on Athletic Greens based on its quality ingredients and I am very pleased with my choice! I start my day with my superfood drink, usually just mixing a scoop with water, tastes great to me. Sometimes I add it to fresh berries in a smoothie. I feel great and have plenty of energy, best of all, I never feel the urge to snack before lunch. Even though it is a little more expensive than some of the comparable products, it is worth it and the company support is excellent!
After an overdose on caffeine last year sent me to the hospital in an ambulance, I’ve been hyper sensitive to caffeine and even vitamins, so I was a little hesitant to try this. A friend of mine raved about it, though, so I figured I’d try. I’ve only been taking half doses so that I don’t nuke my system, but even with half doses I’ve noticed a marked improvement in my health. I have more natural energy during the day, fewer headaches, and I get full more quickly. It hasn’t really reduced my cravings for sugar yet, but I think my cravings are more psychological at this point, anyway. I will probably work my way up toward a full dose, but until then, I’m still quite happy. And it actually doesn’t taste too bad – almost like a vanilla protein shake. Overall I’d recommend.
I was referred to this product by two other current users. This isn’t a one-stop miracle drug. But, if you’re looking for an easy way to quickly get high quality nutrients into your daily consumption, this is the way to go. No “chemical” taste. Mixes easily in water. I tend to use a little more water than required, which washes out the taste, slightly, but helps keep me motivated to stay hydrated.
The pouch is easy to manage, and less expensive. Though, for bringing with me to work, or on business trips, I find the single serve envelopes to be an easy (lazy) way to use the product.