How We Compare Products
A useful comparison should help you decide whether something deserves your money. Here’s what goes into the recommendations on AlexStew.
How products are chosen
The starting point is the question you’re trying to answer. That might be finding a protein powder that suits your diet or understanding different magnesium supplements.
Comparisons focus on relevant products with enough information available to assess them fairly. They’re a selection, rather than an exhaustive list of everything on sale.
If key details such as ingredients or doses are missing, that limits what I can recommend.
What I compare
Depending on the product, I look at:
- Ingredients, nutrient amounts and serving sizes.
- Evidence supporting the intended use.
- Price per comparable serving or amount of the relevant nutrient.
- Dietary suitability, allergens and practical convenience.
- Testing information, where supporting documentation is available.
A bigger scoop or a cheaper tub can make comparisons misleading, so the quantities need to match.
Have I actually tried it?
Where I’ve used a product, I’ll say so and share relevant experience, such as taste or mixability.
Other comparisons use published labels, manufacturer information and research. Those should be identified clearly so you know what the assessment is based on.
Personal experience can tell you whether I enjoyed a shake. Health claims need supporting research.
How commercial relationships fit in
Some recommendations include affiliate links. These help fund AlexStew, and the commercial relationship should be clear wherever a product is promoted.
Commission does not determine my interpretation of the research. Sometimes my advice will be to save your money.
You can read more in the affiliate disclosure.
Prices, labels and updates
Prices and formulations change. Comparisons should state when relevant product details were checked, and material changes may prompt an update.
Spotted an outdated label or price? Send me the article link through the contact form so I can check it.