Behind every scoop of AG1 is a rigorous scientific process built on quality assurance and transparency. Our partnership with Alkemist Labs—a leader in botanical and nutraceutical testing—ensures that every ingredient meets the highest standards for identity (confirming each ingredient is authentic). Through advanced analytical methods and third-party verification, we validate each batch of AG1 so you can be confident that your daily ritual is backed by science, not shortcuts.

Based in Southern California, Alkemist Labs is one of the world’s leading ISO-accredited laboratories for botanical ingredient testing. Family-owned and operated, Alkemist Labs started 30 years ago and has since grown into a world-class laboratory employing over 50 experienced scientists and technicians.

Alkemist Labs maintains an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, which is the international gold standard for laboratory testing competence. What this means is that their methods, equipment, and results meet the highest possible level of scientific rigor and reliability. Their testing capabilities cover a wide range of materials that we ingest or interact with in various consumer goods, including:

AG1 and AGZ are complex formulas and include several botanicals, mushrooms, and plant-based compounds. For these kinds of ingredients, testing precision matters. The active compounds in plants can vary dramatically depending on their species, how they’re harvested, or even which part of the plant is used. AG1 uses Alkemist Labs to qualify raw materials. Through advanced analytical methods, Alkemist Labs confirms the ingredient supply we receive is the correct plant, fungus, or compound, and not a substitute or adulterated version. In fact, botanicals have one of the highest rates of adulteration in the industry, and thus, precision around testing is key to ensure ingredient validation and efficacy.

Alkemist Labs and AG1 work together on botanical assessments and method development as our formulas evolve and scientific technology advances.

The testing processes at Alkemist Labs are both cutting-edge and deeply rooted in the science of plant identification. By combining modern instrumentation with expert human analysis, Alkemist Labs provides a comprehensive profile of every ingredient’s identity and quality. Here’s how they do it:

Microscopy is one of the oldest and still most effective methods for identifying botanicals. Under the microscope, trained analysts can see the microscopic structures of plant materials. It allows experts to verify the plant’s species and part (leaf, root, bark, etc.), detect adulterants such as fillers or incorrect plant parts, and assess the overall quality and integrity of the material.

. This advanced testing method separates the chemical compounds in a sample to create a visual “barcode” that represents its unique chemical identity.

Alkemist Labs uses HPTLC to confirm the presence of key active compounds in AG1 products, detect any unwanted substances or adulteration long before the ingredient is ever used in our formula, and compare samples against verified reference standards.

HPLC is a powerful tool for verifying the identity and quality of complex herbal blends. Think of it as a chemical map of an ingredient. Each plant contains a unique pattern of natural compounds, and HPLC helps visualize that pattern with remarkable precision.

By analyzing these “fingerprints,” scientists can confirm that each ingredient contains the right marker compounds in the right proportions. This method also helps ensure consistency from batch to batch, supporting AG1’s commitment to quality, precision, and purity in every scoop.

For AG1, this means every botanical ingredient we use in AG1 and AGZ is authenticated down to its deepest level. For example, some of the many plant-based ingredients that undergo Alkemist Labs testing include:

 A powerful adaptogen traditionally used to support stress management and vitality.* Testing ensures the ingredient is genuine and standardized to contain the right active compounds (like withanolides).

 Known for supporting mood and cognitive health.* Alkemist Lab’s testing confirms the presence of key bioactive molecules, such as 

. This is a key ingredient in AGZ that helps support the natural sleep-wake cycle.

 Ginger provides digestive and antioxidant support.* Testing verifies both identity and purity, ensuring there are no contaminants or substitutions with related species.

Not all supplements are created equal. Ingredient quality can vary widely across the industry, and without independent verification, it can be difficult for consumers to know what they’re really getting. Partnering with Alkemist Labs ensures that AG1 isn’t just tested—it’s third-party tested. Third-party testing ensures that:

Every plant-based ingredient we use in our products is authentic and pure.

Our formula meets our exacting quality and identity standards; otherwise, it's rejected.

Our products remain consistent and effective from scoop to scoop and month to month.

Our rigorous approach to maintaining quality with industry-leading partners assures AG1 members confidence they’re getting a quality, science-backed product. That’s why AG1 is also 

 – the gold standard in independent dietary supplement testing. NSF Certified for Sport® tests dietary supplements for over 280 banned substances, covering a wide range of stimulants, steroids, diuretics, masking agents, and other substances prohibited in sports.

The future of the supplement industry depends on transparency. The more consumers understand what goes into their supplements and how those ingredients are verified, the more trust we can build as an industry. AG1’s partnership with Alkemist Labs is one step towards that mission: to show third-party tested nutrition can help raise the industry standard.

AG1 and Alkemist Labs: Raising the Transparency Bar

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supports restorative sleep by reducing stress and promoting a calm mental state—not to make you feel sleepy. While traditionally linked to sleep (its species name somnifera means “sleep-inducing”), ashwagandha isn’t a sedative and won’t cause drowsiness on its own. Instead, it works gradually to help regulate cortisol, ease stress, and support a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Clinical studies on ashwagandha show it can help you fall asleep more easily, stay asleep longer, and wake feeling more refreshed—especially when stress is a factor. Ashwagandha helps you unwind naturally and improve your sleep quality.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient herbal remedy often promoted for stress relief, better sleep, and overall relaxation. But does ashwagandha make you sleepy, or does it help to improve your sleep in other ways? Below we dive into the science. First, here’s a quick takeaway for those seeking a brief answer.

Ashwagandha isn't a sedative, so it usually won’t make you immediately sleepy. Instead, it works over time to ease stress and anxiety, helping you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed – some people even feel more energized.

Ashwagandha has a reputation as an herbal ingredient to support sleep. It improves sleep quality through a few key pathways. This adaptogenic herb helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and may subtly influence your sleep architecture (or natural sleep cycle). Human clinical trials show that ashwagandha can make it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more rested – especially if occasional sleepiness or stress is an issue.

 literally means “sleep-inducing,” reflecting its traditional use for promoting sleep. Users often report a calming effect or reduced mental restlessness after taking ashwagandha. In clinical research, ashwagandha consistently helped people fall asleep faster.

For example, a randomized trial found that ashwagandha significantly shortened sleep onset latency, the time it takes to transition from wakefulness to sleep, over 6 weeks compared to a placebo.

It’s important to note that ashwagandha does not act as a direct sedative. You likely won’t feel groggy or drowsy immediately after taking it. Instead, ashwagandha gently relaxes the body and mind, which can pave the way for sleep.

Some of ashwagandha’s plant compounds (like withanolides) may interact with neurotransmitter systems (such as GABA and serotonin) that help regulate relaxation and sleepiness. In human clinical studies, sleep benefits are largely attributed to stress relief.

 Overall, ashwagandha helps create a calm internal state conducive to sleep, without forcing you to nod off involuntarily.

One of the primary ways ashwagandha enhances sleep is by helping to reduce stress and stress-related issues. It’s classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and maintain mood or emotional balance.

Ashwagandha’s active compounds (notably withanolides) are thought to moderate the stress response – for instance, by lowering cortisol (a stress hormone) and supporting neurotransmitters that affect mood and calmness.

 High stress and restlessness are common culprits behind poor sleep. By tackling stress at its source, ashwagandha can indirectly support better sleep.

Human trials back this up. In randomized controlled trials in healthy adults, ashwagandha produced 

 meaning it helped the body better manage stress

 These mood improvements translate to sleep benefits: when your mind and body are more at ease, it’s naturally easier to drift into sleep.

Ashwagandha may also have a positive impact on overall mood and mental well-being, which further supports restorative sleep. Several trials have noted improvements in mental well-being scores in people taking ashwagandha.

 By improving your daytime mood and mitigating stress, ashwagandha sets the stage for a more peaceful night. Essentially, it helps break the vicious cycle of stress leading to poor sleep, and poor sleep increasing stress.

While research is still emerging, early evidence suggests ashwagandha can beneficially improve certain sleep architecture parameters. Specifically, it tends to increase the amount of time spent asleep and decrease fragmented sleep.

Clinical studies using objective measures like actigraphy (wrist-worn sleep trackers) show that ashwagandha can support lengthening total sleep time and boost sleep efficiency (the percentage of time in bed spent actually sleeping).

 For instance, in one 6-week trial, participants taking ashwagandha had a notable increase in total sleep duration and saw their sleep efficiency improve (the ratio of total sleep time to the total time spent in bed), compared to placebo.

 They also experienced fewer awakenings during the night – as measured by reduced wake after sleep onset (WASO).

 Spending less time lying awake means the sleep you do get is more consolidated and restorative.

One placebo-controlled study reported that participants taking ashwagandha had better “mental alertness on rising” scores than the placebo group.

 These results suggest ashwagandha helps you not only sleep more soundly at night but also prepares you for the next day – so you wake up feeling refreshed.

Ashwagandha doesn’t have an immediate sedative effect, so you have some flexibility in when to take it. Many experts recommend a consistent daily regimen over several weeks to truly notice improvements in stress and sleep. Most clinical studies gave ashwagandha daily for 6 to 12 weeks to observe significant benefits.

And importantly, be patient. You may not see dramatic changes in sleep in the first few days. But over several weeks, as your stress balances out and your sleep rhythms normalize, you’ll likely notice easier sleep and better-rested mornings.

In summary, there’s no one “perfect” time universal to everyone for taking ashwagandha for sleep – it depends on your personal preference. The key is consistent daily use.

Ashwagandha and melatonin both support sleep, but work in very different ways. Melatonin is a hormone that signals to your body that it's time to sleep. This may be an option for short-term use, like jet lag or shifting your sleep schedule, since it works quickly (within ~1 hour).

 Ashwagandha, by contrast, is an adaptogenic herb that helps regulate stress and promote better sleep quality over time, with the effects building gradually over weeks. It doesn’t induce sleep directly but instead supports the physiological conditions for restful sleep—especially when stress is involved.

Melatonin generally leaves your system by morning, but if you take too large a dose or you’re sensitive, some people report daytime sleepiness or feeling groggy upon waking.

 In contrast, ashwagandha tends to have no grogginess effect – in fact, as noted earlier, trials show people waking up more alert after using ashwagandha.

 If you’re looking for a nightly supplement that will improve your sleep health over time, ashwagandha is a compelling option.

 = Slower-acting, long-term stress reducer; improves sleep quality over the long run, with added mood/stress benefits.

While ashwagandha can be a helpful tool for better sleep, it works best when combined with general 

. Here are other evidence-based ways to improve your sleep quality naturally:

: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to support your body’s natural sleep-wake rhythm.

: Keep your bedroom dark, cool, quiet, and comfortable. Use blackout curtains, eye masks, earplugs, or white noise as needed.

: Avoid phones, tablets, and computers at least one hour before bed. Blue light suppresses melatonin and delays sleep.

: Limit caffeine and alcohol in the afternoon and evening. Avoid heavy meals right before bed; opt for a light snack if hungry.

: Moderate daily exercise helps improve sleep quality. Avoid intense workouts within 1–2 hours of bedtime.

: Use breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or calming music to unwind before bed.

: Engage in calming, repeatable activities—like journaling, herbal tea, or dimming lights—that signal bedtime to your brain.

By calming your stress and improving your sleep quality over time, ashwagandha can certainly help you 

. Think of it as a natural ally for restorative sleep: it helps your mind and body relax, ensures you get more out of the hours you do sleep, and may leave you feeling alert and balanced the next day. Combined with good sleep habits, ashwagandha can be a valuable part of a healthy sleep routine for those seeking a holistic approach to better sleep. That’s why AGZ includes ashwagandha—to help you unwind, ease stress, and support restorative sleep, all without making you feel sleepy. Sweet dreams!

Deshpande A, Irani N, Balkrishnan R, Benny IR. A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep quality in healthy adults. 

. 2020;72:28-36. doi:10.1016/j.sleep.2020.03.012

Langade D, Kanchi S, Salve J, Debnath K, Ambegaokar D. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. 

. 2019;11(9):e5797. doi:10.7759/cureus.5797

Gopukumar K, Thanawala S, Somepalli V, Rao TSS, Thamatam VB, Chauhan S. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. 

. 2021;2021:8254344. doi:10.1155/2021/8254344

Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Malvi H, Kodgule R. An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. 

. 2019;98(37):e17186. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000017186

Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D. Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. 

. 2019;11(12):e6466. doi:10.7759/cureus.6466

Langade D, Thakare V, Kanchi S, Kelgane S. Clinical evaluation of the pharmacological impact of ashwagandha root extract on sleep in healthy volunteers and insomnia patients: A double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study. 

. 2021;264:113276. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2020.113276

Harpsøe NG, Andersen LPH, Gögenur I, Rosenberg J. Clinical pharmacokinetics of melatonin: a systematic review. 

. 2015;71(8):901-909. doi:10.1007/s00228-015-1873-4

Besag FMC, Vasey MJ, Lao KSJ, Wong ICK. Adverse Events Associated with Melatonin for the Treatment of Primary or Secondary Sleep Disorders: A Systematic Review. 

. 2019;33(12):1167-1186. doi:10.1007/s40263-019-00680-w

References:

Does Ashwagandha Make You Sleepy?

Ashwagandha has a reputation as an herbal ingredient to support sleep. It improves sleep quality through a few key pathways. This adaptogenic herb helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and may subtly influence your sleep architecture (or natural sleep cycle). Human clinical trials show that ashwagandha can make it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more rested – especially if occasional sleepiness or stress is an issue.1–3 Let’s break down how it works.

How Does Ashwagandha Help Your Sleep Quality?

Ashwagandha doesn’t have an immediate sedative effect, so you have some flexibility in when to take it. Many experts recommend a consistent daily regimen over several weeks to truly notice improvements in stress and sleep. Most clinical studies gave ashwagandha daily for 6 to 12 weeks to observe significant benefits. And importantly, be patient. You may not see dramatic changes in sleep in the first few days. But over several weeks, as your stress balances out and your sleep rhythms normalize, you’ll likely notice easier sleep and better-rested mornings. In summary, there’s no one “perfect” time universal to everyone for taking ashwagandha for sleep – it depends on your personal preference. The key is consistent daily use.

When Is the Best Time to Take Ashwagandha?

Melatonin = Fast-acting, short-term sleep trigger. Ashwagandha = Slower-acting, long-term stress reducer; improves sleep quality over the long run, with added mood/stress benefits.

Ashwagandha vs. Melatonin: What’s the Difference?

Methylated B-vitamins are the active forms of essential nutrients that support energy, mood, detoxification, and cardiovascular health.

 A few examples that you may see on supplement facts panels are methyl-folate, the active form of folate, and methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12. But what is methylation, why is it important, and what is the benefit of taking methylated B-vitamins over other forms (e.g., folic acid and cyanocobalamin) commonly found in dietary supplements?

Methylated B-vitamins are special forms of B-vitamins that your body can use right away. Unlike some regular forms (like folic acid or cyanocobalamin), methylated versions don’t need to go through extra steps to be converted into their active form.

 This means they may work more efficiently, helping support things like energy, focus, and mood.

Methylated forms of B vitamins offer several advantages:

: They’re already active, which is helpful for people with MTHFR gene variations.

: They don’t require conversion, so the body can use them faster.

: Regular folic acid can sometimes build up in the blood if it isn’t converted properly, but methylfolate does not.

Although research comparing methylated and non-methylated B-vitamins is still growing, clinical studies suggest that methylated forms like methylfolate and methylcobalamin may support energy, mood, cognition, and healthy homocysteine levels, especially in people with genetic differences.

Methylation is a simple but powerful process your body uses every day. It happens when a tiny chemical tag, called a methyl group (one carbon and three hydrogens), is added to another molecule (e.g., a methyl group is added to homocysteine to convert it to methionine). Think of it like flipping a switch on or off; methylation helps control when certain body processes start or stop.

Why does this matter? Because your body is incredibly busy, running thousands of reactions every second. Methylation helps keep these processes organized and balanced, supporting things like healthy DNA, detoxification, and normal homocysteine levels (an amino acid produced during metabolism that, when high, is linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease).

B vitamins are key players in this process. But here’s the catch: not all B vitamins can be used in their original form from food or supplements. Some, like folate and vitamin B12, must be “activated” through methylation before the body can use them. For example:

Folate is converted into its active form, 5-MTHF

Vitamin B12 is converted into methylcobalamin

Once activated, these vitamins team up to keep methylation running smoothly. One of the body’s most important methyl helpers is called SAMe (short for S-adenosylmethionine).

 SAMe passes along methyl groups to many processes throughout the body, almost like a delivery truck dropping off packages wherever they’re needed. But SAMe can only do its job properly if enough methylfolate and vitamin B12 are around.

In short: methylation is your body’s way of controlling essential processes at the cellular level, and B-vitamins (especially folate and B12) are critical for keeping this cycle moving.

For some people, methylation is not an efficient process. A common gene called MTHFR affects how well the body can turn folate (vitamin B9) into its active form. If someone has a variation in this gene, their body may only make 30–65% of the active folate compared to others.

 In these cases, getting folate in its methylated, “ready-to-use” form (called 5-MTHF) can help fill the gap.

These MTHFR variations aren’t rare. About 20–40% of Hispanic and white Americans carry one copy of the most common variant (C677T), while it’s much less common in Black Americans (about 1–2%).

 But having this gene change doesn’t automatically mean you’ll have health problems. Genes are just one piece of the puzzle; your lifestyle, environment, and diet also play a big role in how your body functions. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider if you want to know more about getting tested for this gene variant.

Methylation is fundamental for keeping your body working properly through gene expression and epigenetics, elimination pathways, neurotransmitter synthesis, cardiovascular health, and immune function.

 - Think of your DNA like it is a giant recipe book with countless recipes to choose from. Your body does not need to use every recipe at the same time, and gene expression is your body's way of choosing which recipe, or gene, to express, in order to make the protein it needs. Now imagine this recipe book has sticky notes or bookmarks for the recipes. These do not change the recipes, but they change how easy it is to use them. That is what epigenetics is: chemical tags or switches that tell your body when and how strongly to use certain genes. 

DNA methylation determines which genes are turned on or off and stabilizes the genome.

 - Elimination pathways are the body’s built-in ‘exit-routes’ that help to eliminate toxins, waste, and extra stuff you do not need. 

Methylation assists in breaking down and removing harmful compounds.

 - Neurotransmitters are the body’s chemical messengers, and their synthesis is just how the body makes these chemical messengers from raw materials like nutrients and enzymes. 

Methylation is necessary for the production of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA

 - The body’s cardiovascular system is like a highway system with the heart being the central pump, the blood vessels are the roads and side streets, and the blood is the traffic. Cardiovascular health is all about keeping the system strong, open, and running smoothly. 

Methylation is critical for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, helping reduce cardiovascular health risk.

 -The immune system is your body’s way of protecting, or defending, against invaders (bacteria, viruses, pathogens, etc.), cleaning up damaged cells, and assisting with the healing process. 

Methylation supports the activity and regulation of immune cells.

Disrupted methylation due to genetic polymorphisms, vitamin deficiencies, or oxidative stress has been associated with cancer

, including both methylated forms and essential cofactors:

Why it matters: Needed to make DNA and keep homocysteine at safe levels.

Where it is found: Leafy greens (kale, spinach), lentils, beans, citrus, and organ meats.

What it does: Donates methyl groups for DNA synthesis and homocysteine clearance through the conversion to methionine.

What it is: One of the active forms of vitamin B12.

Why it matters: Works together with folate to keep homocysteine under control.

Where it is found: Meat, dairy, fish, and eggs.

What it does: Acts as a coenzyme for methionine synthase, the enzyme that converts homocysteine into methionine. Without B12, this reaction stalls.

What it is: The active form of vitamin B6.

Why it matters: Helps break down homocysteine through a backup route.

Where it is found: Poultry, fish, bananas, potatoes, and fortified cereals.

What it does: Supports the transsulfuration pathway, which clears homocysteine by turning it into cysteine. Cysteine can then be used to make glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells.

What it is: The active form of vitamin B2.

Why it matters: Helps enzymes in the folate cycle work properly.

Where it’s found: Milk, yogurt, eggs, almonds, mushrooms, leafy greens.

What it does: Supports the enzyme MTHFR, which produces methylfolate (the active folate needed for methylation).

Why it matters: Involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body.

Where it’s found: Nuts, seeds, whole grains, spinach, legumes.

What it does: Acts like a helper for enzymes, including those needed for moving methyl groups around in the methylation cycle.

What it is: A nutrient made from choline or found in some foods.

Why it matters: Provides an alternate way to lower homocysteine if folate or B12 pathways are stressed.

Where it’s found: Beets, spinach, quinoa, and whole grains.

What it does: Donates methyl groups directly to homocysteine in the liver, turning it into methionine without needing folate or B12.

What it is: An essential nutrient, often grouped with the B vitamins.

Why it matters: Needed for healthy cell membranes, brain signaling, and methylation.

Where it’s found: Eggs (especially the yolk), liver, fish, soybeans, cruciferous veggies.

What it does: Acts as a precursor (starting material) for betaine, and also helps make acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and muscle control.

Why it matters: Required for hundreds of enzymes, including those in methylation.

Where it’s found: Meat, shellfish, beans, seeds, nuts.

What it does: Helps enzymes like methionine synthase function properly in the methylation cycle.

Deficiencies in these nutrients, driven by genetics, environmental factors, or dietary inadequacies in any of these nutrients, may disrupt the methylation cycle, leading to disruptions in bodily processes and elevated homocysteine. 

Important to note, this is not an exhaustive list, and other nutrients play a role in regulating methylation in the human body.

Carboni L. Active Folate Versus Folic Acid: The Role of 5-MTHF (Methylfolate) in Human Health. 

Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline

. National Academies Press; 1998:6015. doi:10.17226/6015

Lewis JE, Tiozzo E, Melillo AB, et al. The Effect of Methylated Vitamin B Complex on Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms and Quality of Life in Adults with Depression. 

Rucklidge JJ, Frampton CM, Gorman B, Boggis A. Vitamin–mineral treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial. 

. 2014;204(4):306-315. doi:10.1192/bjp.bp.113.132126

Mech AW, Farah A. Correlation of Clinical Response With Homocysteine Reduction During Therapy With Reduced B Vitamins in Patients With MDD Who Are Positive for MTHFR C677T or A1298C Polymorphism: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. 

. 2016;77(05):668-671. doi:10.4088/JCP.15m10166

Obersby D, Chappell D, Dunnett A, Tsiami A. Efficacy of Methylcobalamin to Normalise Elevated Homocysteine of Vitamin B12 Deficient Vegetarians: A Double Blind Placebo Control Study. 

. 2015;3(3):187-196. doi:10.12944/CRNFSJ.3.3.02

. 2000;32(4):391-395. doi:10.1016/S1357-2725(99)00139-9

. 1999;58(2):441-448. doi:10.1017/S0029665199000580

. 2015;132(1). doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.114.013311

Moore LD, Le T, Fan G. DNA Methylation and Its Basic Function. 

. 2013;38(1):23-38. doi:10.1038/npp.2012.112

Miller AL. The methylation, neurotransmitter, and antioxidant connections between folate and depression. 

Joseph DB, Strand DW, Vezina CM. DNA methylation in development and disease: an overview for prostate researchers. 

Rasmi Y, Shokati A, Hassan A, et al. The role of DNA methylation in progression of neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases as well as the prospect of using DNA methylation inhibitors as therapeutic agents for such disorders. 

. 2023;14:28-37. doi:10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.12.002

Raghubeer S, Matsha TE. Methylenetetrahydrofolate (MTHFR), the One-Carbon Cycle, and Cardiovascular Risks. 

. 2021;13(12):4562. doi:10.3390/nu13124562

Bailey LB, Caudill MA. Folate. In: Erdman JW, Macdonald IA, Zeisel SH, eds. 

. 1st ed. Wiley; 2012:321-342. doi:10.1002/9781119946045.ch21

Wyss M, Schulze A. Health implications of creatine: can oral creatine supplementation protect against neurological and atherosclerotic disease? 

. 2002;112(2):243-260. doi:10.1016/S0306-4522(02)00088-X

Olthof MR, Brink EJ, Katan MB, Verhoef P. Choline supplemented as phosphatidylcholine decreases fasting and postmethionine-loading plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy men. 

. 2005;82(1):111-117. doi:10.1093/ajcn/82.1.111

Azimi Z, Isa MR, Khan J, Wang SM, Ismail Z. Association of zinc level with DNA methylation and its consequences: A systematic review. 

. 2022;8(10):e10815. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10815

Methylated B-Vitamins: Benefits, Mechanisms, and Why They Matter

Sleep, what we spend one third of our lives doing, is a critical pillar for health

 and daily performance, yet so many of us approach it mindlessly, scrolling late into the night, hitting snooze in the morning, or hoping rest will just “happen.”

Meet Dr. Rebecca Robbins, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Associate Professor of Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and author of Sleep for Success!

 Her research explores how sleep influences cardiometabolic health, cognitive function, mental health, and emotional well-being.

 Dr. Robbins has published over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and 15 books and encyclopedia chapters. Her research has appeared in such peer-reviewed publications as JAMA, SLEEP, the BMJ, Sleep Health, Prevention Science, Health Communication, Preventing Chronic Disease, and the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology.

Her message is simple: how we approach bedtime can transform not just our nights, but our days.

“Growing up, your mother told you to go to bed at the same time. And it turns out that there’s actually a lot of science behind that recommendation.”

Sleep isn’t simply rest; it’s an active biological process. During Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, for example, the brain is highly active.

 In fact, its activity closely mirrors wakefulness, as your brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and supports cognitive performance.

But sleep is more than just duration. Dr. Robbins emphasizes that consistency is just as vital as quantity. Adults should aim for seven to nine hours per night, but the real magic happens when those hours occur on a regular schedule.

“Human beings are not meant to maintain different schedules – falling asleep at one time one night, and another time the next night. Instead, our internal circuitry vitally needs to know the target fall asleep time and target wake up time.”

Despite knowing sleep’s importance in how we feel and function, “only 1 out of 3 Americans consistently meet their sleep needs. Even fewer, less than 30% report that their sleep is restorative.”

Sleep consistency is critical for health and overall well-being. Even a night or two of poor sleep can impair cognition, mood, and physical well-being.

 Consecutive nights significantly worsen these negative effects.

The Scoop

Welcome to The Scoop

AG1 and Alkemist Labs: Raising the Transparency Bar

Does Ashwagandha Make You Sleepy?

Methylated B-Vitamins: Benefits, Mechanisms, and Why They Matter

Go From Mindless To Intentional With Sleep Scientist Rebecca Robbins

AG1 Signs NIL Endorsement Deals With Scientists

Farm to Label: How AG1 Sources Vitamin E From Sunflowers

Is 6 Hours of Sleep Enough?

Which Magnesium Is Best for Sleep? What Is Magnesium?

AG1 Announces Partnership with UC Davis to Advance Precision Health and Nutrition

Fueling the Next Phase of Growth to Empower Health

Meet AGZ: The nightly drink for winding down and resting up

Connect