Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic and AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens) are two prominent health supplements. This article provides a detailed comparison of their formulations, scientific backing, and user experiences to help readers make an informed decision.
Product Overview and Core Philosophy
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic is a specialized synbiotic, combining probiotics and prebiotics. Its core philosophy focuses on targeted gut microbiome support using scientifically validated probiotic strains. Seed uses a unique ViaCap® capsule-in-a-capsule delivery system, engineered to ensure probiotic strains survive stomach acid and reach the colon intact, where they can exert their intended effects.
AG1 positions itself as a comprehensive greens powder, offering broad nutritional support. It aims to cover potential dietary gaps by supplying a wide array of vitamins, minerals, gut health components, and adaptogens in a single daily serving. Seed acts as a gut health specialist, while AG1 functions as a generalist providing broad nutritional coverage.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic features 24 clinically studied probiotic strains, delivering 53.6 billion Active Fluorescent Units (AFU) per daily dose. These strains, including Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus plantarum, are selected for their specific benefits on digestive health, gut barrier integrity, and immune function. Seed’s prebiotic is a 400-milligram blend derived from Indian pomegranate, designed to nourish beneficial bacteria without causing common digestive discomforts like gas or bloating.
AG1 includes 5 clinically studied probiotics, totaling 7.2 billion colony-forming units (CFU), such as Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA-5) and Bifidobacterium bifidum (BB-12). Its prebiotic components include inulin and an enzyme and mushroom complex, which support digestive health and the growth of beneficial gut flora. Seed focuses on a higher count of diverse, targeted probiotic strains and a unique polyphenol-based prebiotic, while AG1 integrates a smaller probiotic blend alongside broader nutritional elements.
Vitamins and Minerals
AG1 serves as a comprehensive multivitamin, providing a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. A single serving delivers significant percentages of daily values for various nutrients, including Vitamin C, E, B12, and Zinc, among others. This profile aims to address common nutrient deficiencies and support overall bodily functions.
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic does not contain vitamins or minerals. Its formulation focuses exclusively on modulating the gut microbiome through its synbiotic blend. Users would need to obtain their daily vitamin and mineral intake from other sources, such as diet or a separate multivitamin.
Superfoods, Adaptogens, and Digestive Enzymes
AG1 incorporates a wide array of superfoods, adaptogens, and digestive enzymes, which are absent in Seed’s formulation. Its “Alkaline, Nutrient-Dense Raw Superfood Complex” includes organic spirulina, organic chlorella, organic wheat grass juice powder, and organic alfalfa powder, known for their antioxidant and nutrient-rich properties, contributing to overall wellness and detoxification processes.
The adaptogen blend in AG1 features ingredients such as ashwagandha, eleuthero root, and reishi and shiitake mushroom powders. Adaptogens are plant-based compounds believed to help the body manage stress and maintain balance. For instance, ashwagandha is traditionally used to support stress response and promote calmness. AG1 also contains digestive enzymes like bromelain and papain, which assist in breaking down food and improving nutrient absorption within the digestive tract.
Efficacy, Testing, and Certifications
Seed places a strong emphasis on scientific research and validation for its DS-01 Daily Synbiotic. The company maintains a Scientific Advisory Board composed of leading scientists. Seed conducts clinical trials to validate the specific effects of its formula, such as improvements in gut transit time, stool hydration, and occasional bloating and discomfort. Furthermore, the product undergoes extensive third-party testing for contaminants, including over 500 pesticides and herbicides, and ensures the survivability of its probiotic strains through simulated digestion studies. This rigorous testing aims to confirm the purity and effectiveness of its synbiotic blend.
AG1 holds the NSF Certified for Sport® credential, which is a rigorous third-party certification program. This certification assures consumers that the product has been tested for over 280 banned substances, including stimulants and narcotics, and that the contents match what is listed on the label. This is relevant for athletes who must adhere to strict anti-doping regulations. AG1 is also manufactured in TGA-registered facilities, primarily in New Zealand, which signifies adherence to high manufacturing quality standards. These certifications underscore AG1’s commitment to product safety and transparency.
Cost, Taste, and User Experience
Cost Breakdown
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic is primarily available through a subscription model, costing $49.99 for a 30-day supply. This breaks down to approximately $1.67 per daily serving. Customers can opt for a 3-month supply to achieve a slight discount, reducing the monthly cost to around $45.12, or $1.50 per serving. Shipping within the United States is typically free with a subscription.
AG1 also operates on a subscription basis, priced at $79 per month for a 30-serving pouch, which equates to approximately $2.64 per serving. A one-time purchase option is available for $99. Larger quantities, such as a 60-serving double subscription, can lower the price per serving to about $2.48. Both companies offer subscription flexibility, allowing users to modify or cancel their plans.
Form and Flavor
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic comes in the form of a dual-layer capsule. Users simply swallow two capsules daily, ideally on an empty stomach. This format means the product has no discernible taste or flavor, offering a neutral consumption experience. The ViaCap® technology protects the inner probiotic capsule from stomach acid, eliminating any taste perception during ingestion.
AG1 is a powdered supplement that is mixed with 8 to 10 ounces of cold water. The resulting drink has a distinct flavor, often described as a blend of pineapple and vanilla, with some users noting an earthy or grassy undertone. While some find the taste pleasant and refreshing, others suggest mixing it with juice or in a smoothie to enhance palatability. AG1 also offers a tropical flavor option.
Daily Routine and Convenience
Incorporating Seed DS-01 into a daily routine involves simply swallowing two capsules, which is a quick and straightforward process. The product does not require refrigeration, making it convenient for storage and travel. Seed also provides a reusable glass jar and a travel vial with initial subscriptions, further enhancing its portability for users on the go.
AG1 requires mixing a scoop of powder with water, which typically involves using a shaker bottle to ensure it is fully dissolved. The AG1 pouch, once opened, requires refrigeration to maintain the viability of its live probiotic cultures. Travel packs are available, offering single servings that are convenient for use away from home.
Making Your Choice: Seed or AG1?
The choice between Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic and AG1 hinges on individual health priorities and lifestyle preferences. Seed is a specialized product designed for those whose primary health goal is targeted, science-backed gut microbiome support. It is an ideal option for individuals who already meet their general vitamin and mineral needs through a balanced diet or other supplements, and who prefer the simplicity and taste-neutrality of a capsule. Its focus on specific probiotic strains and a unique prebiotic caters to a precise approach to gut health.
AG1, conversely, serves as a comprehensive, all-in-one nutritional supplement. It is well-suited for individuals seeking to fill potential dietary gaps and obtain a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and superfoods in a single daily serving. This product appeals to those who appreciate the convenience of a daily health drink and for whom the NSF Certified for Sport® certification provides an added layer of trust regarding product purity and safety. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether one seeks a focused gut health solution or a broader nutritional foundation.