AG1 vs Bloom Greens - Which Is Right For You?
March 1, 2024
In this article we test and compare AG1 vs Bloom Greens, both aim to cater to the increasing demand for dietary supplements that claim to support a healthy lifestyle in a convenient form. As consumers look for ways to improve their nutrition, understanding the specifics of these products—such as their ingredients, nutritional profiles, and intended benefits—becomes crucial in choosing the right greens powder to meet individual needs. AG1 (also known as Athletic Greens) and Bloom both make big claims, but do they really stack up in real world use?
In this review we put both AG1 and Bloom Greens to the test and also compare them to alternative greens powders. Read on to find out which is right for you.
AG1
Overall Rating
Bloom Greens
Overall Rating
Overall Verdict
Supergreen Tonik
Overall Rating
Quick Decision Guide: AG1 vs Bloom Greens vs Supergreen Tonik
Criteria | AG1 | Bloom Greens | Supergreen Tonik |
---|---|---|---|
Overall Rating | 55%
Fill Counter
| 39%
Fill Counter
| 91%
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|
Objective | General health enhancement with a focus on nutrition and wellness | Basic health improvement with an emphasis on digestive health and organic ingredients | Comprehensive health and cognitive enhancement with a transparent, nutrient-rich formula |
Scientific Backing | Moderate, with a broad range of well-studied vitamins and minerals | Moderate, ingredients supported by general health research | Strong, ingredients chosen for specific health and cognitive benefits, supported by research |
Formula Complexity | Comprehensive, with a wide range of nutrients covering vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens | Moderate, focuses on greens and digestive health ingredients | Very comprehensive, targeting both general health and cognitive function |
Brand Reputation Concerns | Minimal, well-regarded in the wellness community | Minimal, emerging positive reputation | Minimal to none, praised for transparency and efficacy |
Commitment Time For Results | Weeks to months, depending on individual health goals | Weeks to months, varying by individual | Weeks to months, consistent use recommended for best results |
User Feedback | Mostly positive with some criticism of taste and cost | Mixed, with some dissatisfaction regarding taste | Predominantly positive, especially regarding cognitive benefits |
Ingredients Transparency | Largely hidden within proprietary blends | Largely hidden within proprietary blends | Fully disclosed, with clear information on dosages |
Dosage Convenience | Once daily scoop | Once daily scoop | Once daily scoop |
Potential Side Effects | Low risk, with some notes on taste preference due to Stevia | Low risk, taste preferences vary due to Stevia inclusion | Low risk, well-tolerated formula |
Customer Support & Returns Policy | Good, with return options available | Good, with some variability based on retailer | Excellent, with a clear money-back guarantee |
Product Availability | Widely available through the official site and select retailers | Widely available, especially online | Available through the official site only |
Additional Benefits | General wellness, energy boost, immune support | Focus on organic ingredients, digestive health | Enhanced cognitive function, mental clarity, and focus alongside general health benefits |
Cost | Super Premium | Premium | Premium |
Serving Size | 12g | 5g | 12g |
Servings Per Container | 30 | 30 | 30 |
Price |
What Are Greens Powders And Why Do We Need Them?
Greens powders have emerged as a popular solution for those looking to enhance their nutrient intake in the face of modern dietary challenges. These supplements are made by drying and finely grinding a variety of vegetables, herbs, probiotics, and other plant-based ingredients into a powder form, aiming to provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (1).
Defining Greens
Greens powders are formulated to support numerous health benefits, such as boosting energy, improving digestive health, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the immune system (2). For example, AG1 by Athletic Greens includes a blend of over 75 vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens, while Bloom Greens focuses on organic greens, fiber, antioxidants, and a proprietary mix of digestive enzymes and adaptogens (3). These products underscore the role of natural ingredients in delivering the nutritional benefits of a diverse, vegetable-rich diet in a convenient form.
Modern-Day Nutritional Challenges
Today's diets often lack sufficient nutrients due to the prevalence of processed foods, time constraints on meal preparation, and the reduced nutrient density of produce caused by soil depletion (4). Greens powders offer a practical way to address these nutritional deficiencies, proposing an easy method to increase the intake of essential nutrients.
Despite the advantages of greens powders, they are not intended to replace whole foods entirely. Consuming whole fruits and vegetables is crucial for obtaining dietary fiber and bioactive compounds in their most effective forms, which may not be fully replicated in powdered supplements (5). It's essential to consider the bioavailability of nutrients from greens powders and to view them as part of a broader dietary strategy that prioritizes whole foods for optimal health.
Introduction To AG1 and Bloom Greens
In today's fast-paced world, getting all the necessary nutrients from food alone can be challenging. This reality has sparked interest in supplements like greens powders, which promise to fill nutritional gaps. Two notable options in this category are AG1 by Athletic Greens and Bloom Greens. These brands have become popular for offering a blend of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and plant-based ingredients aimed at supporting overall health and well-being.
AG1 by Athletic Greens is a comprehensive supplement that provides a wide array of nutrients in each serving. It's designed to support various aspects of health, from energy levels to immune function, and includes a mix of over 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole-food sourced ingredients. The formula is packed with greens, enzymes, and probiotics to aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Bloom Greens, on the other hand, focuses on a blend of organic greens, antioxidants, fiber, and a pre and probiotic mix. It's tailored to support digestive health, boost immunity, and provide essential nutrients with fewer calories per serving. Bloom Greens positions itself as a convenient way to get a daily dose of fruits and vegetables, along with added benefits for skin health and energy.
AG1 - The High Profile Mainstream Brand
Ingredients and How They Work
AG1 by Athletic Greens is a notable player in the greens powder market, offering a comprehensive blend of over 75 ingredients designed to support a wide range of bodily functions. The formula combines vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, adaptogens, and a multitude of plant-based nutrients aimed at enhancing overall health. Key components include spirulina and chlorella, known for their high concentrations of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to detoxification and immune support (6). The inclusion of digestive enzymes and a robust probiotic blend, such as Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus, aids in improving gut health and nutrient absorption (7).
The product also features adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola, which are herbs known to help the body manage stress and improve mental clarity (8). Additionally, a variety of antioxidants from sources like green tea extract and cocoa bean powder work to combat oxidative stress, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases (9). AG1's careful selection of ingredients reflects a commitment to addressing not just nutritional gaps but also promoting resilience against stress and environmental toxins.
While AG1 by Athletic Greens offers an extensive list of ingredients designed to support a wide range of health benefits, there is a notable concern regarding transparency. The brand utilizes proprietary blends in its formulation, which means that while it discloses the ingredients included, it does not specify the exact amounts of each ingredient. This practice can obscure the precise nutrient composition from consumers, making it challenging to assess the supplement's effectiveness and safety fully.
Transparency Issues
The use of proprietary blends can be problematic for several reasons. First, it complicates the ability of consumers to determine if they are receiving effective dosages of key nutrients and botanicals. Research has shown that the health benefits of vitamins, minerals, and adaptogens are dose-dependent, meaning that too little may be ineffective, and too much could potentially cause adverse effects (10). Without clear information on ingredient quantities, it's difficult for consumers to gauge whether a product meets their specific nutritional needs or aligns with health recommendations.
Second, for individuals with dietary restrictions or those who are managing their intake of certain nutrients due to health conditions, the lack of detailed information can pose risks. For example, excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can interfere with medical conditions or medications (11). Transparency about ingredient amounts would allow consumers to make informed decisions and avoid potential health risks.
Finally, the practice of hiding behind proprietary blends can raise questions about the product's value. Without transparency, it's challenging for consumers to compare AG1 with other products on the market based on the concentration and quality of ingredients (12). This lack of clarity may lead some to question whether the premium price of AG1 is justified by its contents.
AG1 Pros and Cons
Cons
Bloom Greens: The Low-Cost Basic Option
Ingredients and How They Work
Bloom Greens offers an accessible entry into the greens powder market with a simple, straightforward formula. It comprises a fiber blend utilizing chicory root fructo-oligosaccharides, organic flaxseed, and apple fruit powder to promote digestive health. The product's green superfood blend is enriched with organic ingredients like barley grass, spirulina, wheatgrass, alfalfa leaf, and chlorella powders, aimed at providing a nutritious boost of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for enhanced overall health.
Additionally, Bloom Greens includes a pre and probiotic blend that supports gut health and nutrient absorption, an important aspect considering the gut's role in overall wellness. The inclusion of a fruit and vegetable blend ensures the intake of a variety of phytonutrients and antioxidants. Moreover, an adaptogen blend featuring ashwagandha and rhodiola offers support for the body's stress management mechanisms.
Bloom Greens Pros and Cons
Cons
Comparing the Two: AG1 and Bloom Greens, Side by Side
Efficacy and Clinical Backing
When evaluating AG1 and Bloom Greens, it's crucial to consider the scientific support behind their ingredients. AG1 boasts a wide array of over 75 ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens, designed to support a comprehensive range of bodily functions. Research supports the efficacy of many of these components individually; for instance, the inclusion of adaptogens like ashwagandha is backed by studies highlighting their role in stress management and mental clarity (13). Similarly, the probiotics found in AG1, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, have documented benefits for gut health (14).
Bloom Greens offers a more streamlined formula that focuses on delivering key nutrients through its green superfood blend and added fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics. The efficacy of its core ingredients, like spirulina and chlorella, is well-documented in terms of providing antioxidants and supporting detoxification (15). However, the overall clinical backing of Bloom Greens, compared to AG1, might seem less robust due to its simpler formulation and lower ingredient count.
Both products, however, suffer from the use of proprietary blends, which complicates the evaluation of their clinical efficacy. Without precise amounts of each ingredient, it's challenging to directly correlate the products with specific health outcomes promised by clinical research.
Side Effects and Safety
Both AG1 and Bloom Greens are generally considered safe for the average adult when used according to the manufacturers' instructions. Side effects are rare but can include gastrointestinal discomfort, especially for those not accustomed to high levels of fiber or certain adaptogens (16). The safety of these products also hinges on the transparency of their ingredient lists. Although both brands list their ingredients, the use of proprietary blends may obscure potential allergen information or compound sensitivities.
Cost and Value for Money
AG1 is positioned at a premium price point, approximately $79 for a 30-day supply, reflecting its broad spectrum of ingredients and marketed benefits. In contrast, Bloom Greens is offered at a lower cost, around $39.99 for the same duration, aiming to provide essential nutritional benefits at a more accessible price.
The value for money of AG1 can be justified by its comprehensive approach to wellness, targeting multiple health aspects with one product. However, the lack of transparency regarding ingredient amounts may leave some consumers questioning its true value. Bloom Greens, while more affordable and straightforward, offers basic nutritional support, making it a cost-effective option for individuals seeking to supplement their diet without extensive additional benefits.
The choice between AG1 and Bloom Greens comes down to personal health goals, budget, and preferences for ingredient transparency. While AG1 offers a more all-encompassing nutritional solution, Bloom Greens provides a simpler, more affordable alternative for basic dietary supplementation. The are however better alternatives which are transparently formulated, offer a diverse range of health benefits and provide good value for money.
Testimonials and Real Life Feedback
What Users Say About AG1
Users often praise AG1 for its comprehensive nutritional profile, highlighting the convenience of getting a wide array of essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens in a single scoop. Many note improvements in energy levels, digestive health, and overall well-being after incorporating AG1 into their daily routine. The taste, while subjective, is generally reported to be pleasant or at least more palatable compared to other greens powders, thanks to its natural flavorings.
However, some users express concerns over the product's use of proprietary blends, which obscure the exact amounts of each ingredient. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for individuals to assess the specific nutritional benefits or compare AG1 directly with other products. Additionally, the premium price point of AG1 is a common drawback for users working within a budget, leading some to question the cost-to-benefit ratio of the supplement.
Feedback on Bloom Greens
Bloom Greens receives positive feedback for its affordability and focus on organic ingredients, making it an attractive option for those new to greens powders or looking for a basic supplement to enhance their nutrient intake. Users appreciate the inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics, which support digestive health, and the adaptogen blend aimed at stress management.
Despite its lower price, some users critique Bloom Greens for the limited range of nutrients compared to more comprehensive formulas like AG1. The taste of Bloom Greens, sweetened with stevia, receives mixed reviews. While some find it enjoyable, others are less keen on the sweetness or aftertaste stevia can leave, which can affect the consistency of use. Similar to AG1, the use of proprietary blends in Bloom Greens raises concerns among users about the inability to verify the potency and effectiveness of its ingredients.
Our Experience With AG1
Starting our journey with AG1 by Athletic Greens was driven by curiosity and the wide ranging health benefits following the brand's holistic approach to health. AG1, with its vast array of nutrients, seemed like a promising candidate to support our team's diverse health goals.
Our Experience with AG1
From the outset, AG1's promise of delivering a comprehensive spectrum of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens in a single scoop intrigued us. The inclusion of ingredients such as spirulina and chlorella for their nutrient density, alongside adaptogens like ashwagandha for stress management, hinted at a well-rounded health supplement (17,18). With daily consumption, we observed modest improvements in our overall health, including slight increases in energy levels and a sense of improved digestive health due to the probiotic blend (19).
Cognitively, the effects were subtle. Some team members reported feeling a bit more focused and alert, possibly attributable to the B vitamins known for supporting brain health (20). However, when comparing these improvements to the experiences provided by more targeted, nootropic-focused greens powders like Supergreen Tonik, AG1's impact felt underwhelming. Supergreen Tonik's transparent formulation and emphasis on cognitive benefits set a high benchmark that AG1 didn't quite meet in terms of noticeable cognitive enhancement.
A notable aspect of AG1 was its palatability. The product was relatively easy to integrate into our daily routine, thanks to its taste profile, which, despite the inclusion of stevia as a sweetener, was generally well-received. However, it's worth mentioning that the taste of AG1, sweetened with stevia, was not to everyone's liking. Some users found the sweetness to be overpowering or disliked the aftertaste that stevia can sometimes leave (21).
Reflections on the Experience
Our time with AG1 illuminated the complexities of dietary supplements in achieving specific health outcomes. AG1 falls short of delivering the wide ranging health benefits promised. The subtle health improvements, although beneficial, highlighted the importance of aligning supplement choices with specific health objectives.
The experience underscored the value of transparency in supplement formulation. Products like Supergreen Tonik offer a clearer understanding of what users are consuming and the intended benefits, providing a level of assurance and expectation that AG1's proprietary blends do not.
AG1 by Athletic Greens presents a viable option for those looking to support their general health with a wide-ranging nutrient boost. AG1, while offering a glimpse into the potential of greens powders, reminds us of the nuanced nature of dietary supplements and the importance of targeted formulations in meeting individual health goals. It's an expensive option and in return only delivered modest health benefits.
Our Experience With Bloom Greens
During our testing to find the most effective greens powder for enhancing overall health, our team embarked on a trial of Bloom Greens. Known for its blend of organic greens, digestive enzymes, and adaptogens, Bloom Greens presented an appealing option for those of us seeking a natural boost to our daily nutrient intake. Here, we share our candid experiences with Bloom Greens, highlighting both its strengths and areas where it fell short of expectations, especially when compared to a more comprehensively and transparently formulated greens powder like Supergreen Tonik.
Our Experience with Bloom Greens
Upon integrating Bloom Greens into our daily routine, we were optimistic about the potential health benefits, given its promising ingredient list. The inclusion of a fiber blend with chicory root and organic flaxseed, along with a green superfood blend featuring barley grass and spirulina, suggested a significant potential for digestive health improvement and nutrient absorption (22,23). Additionally, the adaptogen blend, including ashwagandha and rhodiola, was anticipated to offer stress relief and support for cognitive functions (24).
Over several weeks, our team noted very modest health improvements. Some of us experienced slight increases in energy levels and a mild improvement in digestive comfort. However, when it came to cognitive enhancements, the results were less pronounced than expected. While the ingredients theoretically support brain health and stress management, the dosages within the proprietary blends made it challenging to ascertain their efficacy directly.
Compared to our experiences with Supergreen Tonik, which has a clear, comprehensive, and transparently dosed formulation aimed specifically at enhancing cognitive function alongside overall health, Bloom Greens felt somewhat underwhelming. Supergreen Tonik's approach allows users to understand exactly what they are consuming and how it contributes to their health goals, a level of transparency that fosters confidence in the product's efficacy.
Another aspect of our trial was the palatability of Bloom Greens. Generally, we found the powder relatively easy to consume when mixed with water or added to smoothies, a convenience factor that cannot be understated. However, the inclusion of stevia as a sweetener received mixed reactions. While some appreciated the absence of artificial sweeteners and the attempt at a natural profile, others were put off by the distinctive aftertaste of stevia, which affected their enjoyment and, consequently, their consistency in using the supplement (25,26).
Reflections on the Experience
Our journey with Bloom Greens underscored the importance of aligning health supplements with individual needs and preferences. While Bloom Greens offers a basic foundation of nutrients beneficial for general health, its impact was limited. For those seeking targeted health improvements, including cognitive improvements and a more palatable experience, exploring alternatives like Supergreen Tonik might provide a more satisfying outcome.
While Bloom Greens stands as a viable option for those looking to supplement their diet with a natural, plant-based formula, its modest health improvements and the divisive taste profile suggest that it may not meet everyone's expectations, particularly when compared to alternatives with more targeted, transparent formulations.
Ingredients in AG1 (Athletic Greens)
Spirulina, Lecithin (soya) (65% phospholipids), Alkaline pea protein isolate, Apple powder, Inulin, Citrus bioflavonoids extract, Acascorbic acid, Wheat grass powder (leaf), Chlorella powder, Alfalfa powder (leaf), Barley (Hordeum vulgare) leaf powder, Papaya (Carica papaya) fruit powder, Carrot root citrate, Broccoli powder, Pectin potassium phosphate, Calcium powder, Magnesium citrate, Antioxidant: Citric acid; Beet root powder, Calcium carbonate, Alpha lipoic acid, Sweetener: Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) leaf powder; α-lipoic acid, Thiamin acid succinate (soya), Acerola fruit extract, Cocoa bean powder, Ginger rhizome powder, Licorice root powder, Spinach leaf powder, Bromelain, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract, Rose hip (Rosa canina) fruit powder, Zinc citrate, Calcium phosphate, Artichoke leaf extract, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Anti-caking agent: silicon dioxide; Pineapple fruit powder, Shiitake mushroom powder, Reishi mushroom powder, Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) bark powder, Coenzyme Q10, Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) root powder extract, Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) root dry extract, Rosemary leaf extract, Niacin nicotinic acid, Dandelion whole plant concentrate, Kelp whole plant powder, Lycium berry fruit extract, Beta Glucans, Green tea (Camellia sinensis) extract (leaf), Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) root extract, Burdock root powder, Policosanol, Schisandrae, Chinese Magnoliae anemo acid cholate derivative, Heteromorpha, Cauliflower, Panthenic, Hawthorn berry extract, Thiamine hydrochloride, Beta carotene, Bilberry fruit extract, Nicotinamide, Riboflavin, Copper gluconate, Milk thistle seed extract, Grape seed extract, Folate (5-MTHF), Biotin, Chromium picolinate, Vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7), Methylcobalamin, Natural flavorings.
AG1 Ingredient Analysis and Clinical Dosages:
Athletic Greens AG1 offers a broad spectrum of ingredients, from superfoods and vitamins to minerals and probiotics. The health benefits of these ingredients are well-documented, but the product's use of proprietary blends obscures the exact amounts, making it difficult to evaluate their efficacy relative to clinical studies.
- Spirulina: Research indicates health benefits from spirulina at dosages of 1-8 grams. These benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (27). Without specific dosage information from AG1, it's uncertain if the product contains spirulina within this effective range.
- Ashwagandha: Effective dosages for stress reduction and cognitive enhancement are typically between 300-500 mg (28). AG1 includes ashwagandha in its formula, but the lack of disclosed amounts raises questions about its potential efficacy within the blend.
- Chlorella: Studies suggest that chlorella supports detoxification and immune health at dosages of 3-5 grams (29). As with other ingredients in AG1, the contribution of chlorella is unclear due to the proprietary blend.
- Wheat Grass, Probiotics, and Others: The benefits of wheat grass, probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, and additional ingredients depend significantly on their quantities. Effective dosages vary, with probiotics often required in the billions of CFUs to impact gut health positively (30). The proprietary blend in AG1 complicates understanding whether these ingredients are present in beneficial amounts.
The Challenge of Proprietary Blends:
AG1's reliance on proprietary blends is a significant barrier to evaluating its potential health benefits fully. This practice prevents users from knowing the exact amounts of each ingredient, contrasting with the transparency needed to assess a supplement's efficacy based on clinical research.
Clinical Research vs. AG1's Formula:
Given the lack of specific dosages for AG1's ingredients, it is challenging to directly compare the product's formula with the dosages used in clinical research that demonstrate tangible health benefits. The broad array of ingredients in AG1, while seemingly comprehensive, may not be provided at levels that clinical evidence supports as effective for health improvements.
Athletic Greens AG1 presents a promising array of nutrients, but the use of proprietary blends and the absence of disclosed ingredient dosages hinder the ability to confirm its effectiveness against clinical standards.
Ingredients in Bloom Greens
Chicory Root Fructo-oligosaccharides, Organic Flaxseed, Apple Fruit Powder: 1.606g
Green Superfood Blend
Organic Barley Grass Powder, Organic Spirulina Powder, Organic Wheatgrass Powder, Organic Alfalfa Leaf Powder, Organic Chlorella Powder: 1.367g
Pre and Probiotic Blend
Blue Agave Inulin, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus: 648mg â€
Fruit and Vegetable Blend
Organic Carrot Powder, Beet Root Powder, Kale Leaf Powder, Blueberry Powder, Spinach Powder, Broccoli Powder, Ginger Root 5:1 Extract: 572mg
Antioxidant Beauty Blend
Cranberry Fruit Powder, Strawberry Fruit Powder, Raspberry Fruit Juice Powder, Tart Cherry Fruit Powder, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Acai Fruit Extract (Euterpe oleracea), Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum), Horseradish Tree Leaf (Moringa oleifera), Grape Seed Extract, Matcha Green Tea Leaf: 550mg
Digestive Enzyme Blend
Maltodextrin, Amylase, Amyloglucosidase, Protease, Acid Protease, Cellulase, Lipase: 150mg
Adaptogen Blend
Licorice Root Extract, Rhodiola Root Powder, American Ginseng Root Extract, Ashwagandha Root Powder, Astragalus Root Powder, Eleuthero Root Powder: 100mg
Stevia Leaf Extract: 95mg
Ingredient Analysis vs. Clinical Dosages:
- Organic Spirulina Powder: Spirulina is renowned for its health benefits, with studies typically using dosages ranging from 1-8 grams to achieve significant antioxidant and immune-boosting effects. Given that the entire Green Superfood Blend in Bloom Greens is only 1.367g, which also includes several other ingredients, it's highly unlikely that spirulina is present at a clinically effective dosage (31).
- Organic Barley Grass Powder: Effective doses for barley grass, noted for its nutrient density and health benefits, often exceed 5 grams in research. As part of the same blend as spirulina, barley grass is also underdosed in Bloom Greens, falling short of the amount required for clinical efficacy (32).
- Organic Chlorella Powder: Chlorella's detoxification and immune enhancement effects are observed with dosages of 3-5 grams in clinical settings. The formulation of Bloom Greens, again, does not provide this ingredient in a clinically effective dosage due to the limited total amount of the blend (33).
- Probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus): For probiotics, clinical benefits such as improved gut health and immune function are seen with dosages ranging from 1-10 billion CFUs. The Pre and Probiotic Blend in Bloom Greens is listed at 648mg without specific CFU counts, making it impossible to determine if effective probiotic dosages are met (34).
- Adaptogens (e.g., Ashwagandha Root Powder): Ashwagandha's stress-reducing and cognitive benefits are supported by dosages of 300-500 mg. The Adaptogen Blend in Bloom Greens, totaling only 100mg for multiple adaptogens, clearly indicates that ashwagandha is not provided at a clinically effective level (35).
The Issue with Proprietary Blends:
Bloom Greens' reliance on proprietary blends obscures the exact quantity of each ingredient, preventing users from determining whether these amounts align with those found to be effective in clinical research. This approach:
- Masks the underdosing of key ingredients.
- Limits the product's potential health benefits as claimed, based on scientific evidence.
- Complicates consumers' ability to make informed decisions based on ingredient efficacy.
Bloom Greens contains a variety of health-promoting ingredients, but the product's formulation strategy—using proprietary blends—effectively hides whether these ingredients are included at clinically effective dosages. In almost all cases, based on the blend totals provided, it's evident that most, if not all, ingredients are underdosed compared to the levels used in clinical research that demonstrate significant health benefits. For individuals seeking to maximize their health through supplements, this analysis underscores the importance of choosing products that offer full transparency about their ingredient dosages, ensuring they align with proven clinical efficacy.
Potential Side Effects of AG1
Potential Side Effects by Ingredient Category:
- Superfoods and Greens (e.g., Spirulina, Chlorella, Wheat Grass): Generally safe, these ingredients can sometimes cause minor gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, especially in individuals not accustomed to high-fiber diets (36,37). Rarely, spirulina can cause allergic reactions or exacerbate autoimmune conditions due to its immune-stimulating properties (38).
- Probiotics (e.g., Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus acidophilus): While beneficial for gut health, introducing probiotics can initially lead to digestive upset, including gas and bloating, as the gut microbiome adjusts (39).
- Adaptogens (e.g., Ashwagandha, Rhodiola): These are well-tolerated by most but can cause mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or dizziness in sensitive individuals or when taken in high doses (40). Ashwagandha, in particular, may also interact with thyroid medications (41).
- Digestive Enzymes and Fibers (e.g., Inulin, Bromelain): Can promote digestive health but may cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea in sensitive individuals or at high doses (42).
- Antioxidants and Phytonutrients (e.g., Acerola fruit extract, Green tea extract): Generally associated with health benefits, but green tea extract can cause jitteriness, sleep disturbances, or upset stomach in high doses due to caffeine content (43).
- Minerals and Vitamins (e.g., Magnesium, Vitamin C): High doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea and nausea, while excess magnesium may lead to laxative effects (44,45).
The Issue of Proprietary Blends and Dosage Transparency:
The use of proprietary blends in AG1 makes it challenging to ascertain the precise dosages of individual ingredients. This lack of transparency complicates the assessment of potential side effects, as the risk often correlates with the amount consumed. Without specific dosage information, consumers may unknowingly exceed the recommended intake levels for certain ingredients, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
AG1's blend of diverse ingredients list claims to be designed to support various health functions, from immune support to energy enhancement. While the supplement is formulated to be safe for general consumption, potential side effects associated with its ingredients—particularly when dosages are unclear due to proprietary blends—underscore the importance of consuming such products with awareness and caution. Individuals with specific health conditions, allergies, or sensitivities should consult healthcare professionals before integrating new supplements into their regimen, ensuring they align with their health needs and medication profiles.
Potential Side Effects of Bloom Greens
Potential Side Effects by Ingredient Category:
- Fiber Blend (e.g., Chicory Root Fructo-oligosaccharides, Organic Flaxseed):
- Side Effects: Increased fiber intake can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, and in some cases, constipation or diarrhea (46). These effects are typically mild and decrease with regular use as the body adjusts.
- Green Superfood Blend (e.g., Organic Spirulina, Chlorella, Wheatgrass):
- Side Effects: These green superfoods are rich in nutrients but can cause detoxification symptoms in some individuals, including headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort (47,48). Spirulina might also pose a risk of allergic reactions in susceptible individuals (49).
- Pre and Probiotic Blend:
- Side Effects: While beneficial for gut health, introducing new probiotics can initially result in gas, bloating, or changes in bowel habits as the gut microbiota adjusts (50).
- Antioxidant Beauty Blend (e.g., Cranberry, Acai, Matcha Green Tea Leaf):
- Side Effects: High doses of antioxidants are generally safe, but matcha green tea leaf contains caffeine, which may cause jitteriness, sleep disturbances, or increased heart rate in sensitive individuals (51).
- Digestive Enzyme Blend:
- Side Effects: Digestive enzymes can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, especially when taken in high doses or on an empty stomach (52).
- Adaptogen Blend (e.g., Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Ginseng):
- Side Effects: Adaptogens are known for their stress-reducing properties but can lead to mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or dizziness in sensitive individuals. Ashwagandha, specifically, may interact with thyroid medications (53).
The diversity of Bloom Greens’ ingredients means that side effects can vary widely among individuals, largely depending on personal sensitivities, the existing diet, and how one's body reacts to high concentrations of specific nutrients. Moreover, the use of natural flavors and Stevia as a sweetener could cause taste preferences or sensitivities in some individuals, although these are not typically associated with health risks.
Bloom Greens is formulated to support various health benefits, from enhanced nutrition to improved digestive health. While potential side effects are generally mild and temporary, they underscore the importance of monitoring one's response to the supplement and consulting healthcare professionals, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or concerns about ingredient interactions. Transparency regarding dosages within proprietary blends would aid consumers in making informed decisions aligned with their health goals and tolerances.
Overall Results
AG1
Overall Rating
Bloom Greens
Overall Rating
Overall Verdict
Supergreen Tonik
Overall Rating
Conclusion
In testing AG1 vs Bloom Greens, and contrasting them with our experience with Supergreen Tonik, we've reached a conclusive verdict. Both AG1 and Bloom Greens present themselves as robust health supplements, aiming to fill the nutritional gaps in the average diet with a wide array of greens, vitamins, and minerals. However, when analyzing their formulas, their reliance on proprietary blends obscures the precise amounts of each ingredient, making it challenging to gauge their effectiveness against clinical dosages known to offer health benefits.
AG1 claims to target everything from energy levels to immune support. Yet, the lack of transparency regarding its ingredient dosages raises questions about its overall efficacy. Similarly, Bloom Greens offers a promising mix of greens and probiotics but falls short in providing the clarity needed to ensure these ingredients are present in beneficial amounts.
By way of contrast, Supergreen Tonik offers full transparency in the dosages of its ingredients, which align closely with clinical studies into their health benefits. This level of openness not only fosters trust but also allows users to understand precisely what they are consuming and why.
Our experience with Supergreen Tonik revealed a noticeable improvement in several health metrics, including digestion, cognitive performance, sleep quality, and an overall sense of well-being that was less pronounced with AG1 and Bloom Greens. The formulation of Supergreen Tonik, rich in high-dose superfoods and backed by a nootropic and immune blend, delivers a comprehensive approach to health supplementation. Each ingredient is included at a dosage that is not just nominal but is intended to elicit a real, beneficial impact on health.
References
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