Help & Documentation
Learn how to use Smart Stacks, Smart Fuel, and other tools to optimize your health and fitness journey with evidence-based approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to the most common questions about our tools, recommendations, and evidence-based approach to health optimization.
General Questions
What makes Sighed Effects different from other supplement sites?
We focus exclusively on evidence-based recommendations backed by peer-reviewed research. Unlike sites that promote trends or specific brands, our tools analyze your individual profile and goals to provide personalized suggestions based on scientific literature. We don't sell supplements—we provide unbiased information to help you make informed decisions.
Do I need to pay to use the basic tools?
You can create a free account to access basic features and save your results. Advanced personalization features and detailed recommendations require a membership. All our educational articles and research content remain free for everyone.
Are your recommendations personalized medical advice?
No. Our tools provide educational information and general recommendations based on research. They don't replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult healthcare providers before starting new supplements or making significant dietary changes, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.
How often should I update my profile information?
Update your profile whenever significant changes occur: weight changes of 5+ pounds, activity level changes, new health goals, or changes in health status. For best results, review and update your information monthly, especially if you're actively working toward fitness goals.
Can I trust the supplement brands you recommend?
We prioritize brands with third-party testing, GMP certification, and transparent labeling. Our recommendations focus on quality markers like USP Verified, NSF Certified, or Informed Choice certifications. However, the supplement industry has minimal regulation, so always research brands independently and consult healthcare providers.
Smart Stacks Questions
How do Smart Stacks determine which supplements to recommend?
Our algorithm analyzes your goals, health profile, and preferences against our database of research-backed supplements. We consider factors like efficacy evidence, safety profiles, potential interactions, and dosing requirements. The system prioritizes supplements with strong research support and relevance to your specific situation.
Why do some recommendations include dosage ranges instead of exact amounts?
Research often shows effective ranges rather than single optimal doses. Individual factors like body weight, sensitivity, and goals influence optimal dosing. We provide ranges so you can start conservatively and adjust based on your response, following the principle of using the minimum effective dose.
Should I take all recommended supplements at once?
No. Start with 1-2 supplements from your stack to assess tolerance and effects. Add additional supplements gradually over several weeks. This approach helps you identify what works for you and reduces the risk of adverse reactions or interactions.
How often should I regenerate my Smart Stack?
Regenerate your stack when your goals, health status, or lifestyle significantly change. For most people, reviewing your stack every 3-6 months is appropriate. If you're actively working toward specific goals, monthly reviews can help optimize your approach as you progress.
What if I'm already taking supplements not in my recommended stack?
Review your current supplements with your healthcare provider before making changes. Some supplements you're taking might be appropriate for your goals but not included in our algorithm's top recommendations. You can also adjust your profile to include specific preferences or requirements.
TDEE Calculator Questions
My TDEE seems higher/lower than expected. Is this normal?
TDEE calculations are estimates based on population averages. Individual variations of ±200-300 calories are normal due to factors like genetics, metabolic efficiency, and fidgeting habits. Use your TDEE as a starting point and adjust based on real-world results over 2-4 weeks.
Which activity level should I choose if I exercise 3-4 times per week?
Consider both exercise and daily activity. Someone who exercises 4x/week but sits at a desk most days might choose "Lightly Active." Someone with the same exercise routine but walks frequently or has an active job might choose "Moderately Active." Be honest about your overall activity, not just planned exercise.
How should I adjust calories if I want to lose weight?
For sustainable weight loss, create a moderate deficit of 300-500 calories below your TDEE. Larger deficits can lead to muscle loss, metabolic slowdown, and difficulty maintaining the diet. Aim to lose 0.5-1 pound per week for most people, or 1-2 pounds for those with significant weight to lose.
Should I eat the same calories on rest days and workout days?
You can use the same daily calories (based on your average weekly activity) or adjust for workout vs rest days. If adjusting, eat closer to your TDEE on workout days and reduce by 200-300 calories on rest days. The total weekly average should align with your goals.
My weight isn't changing despite following my TDEE calculation. What's wrong?
Weight can fluctuate due to water retention, hormones, and other factors. Track for 2-4 weeks before adjusting. If no change occurs, adjust calories by 100-200 in the appropriate direction. Also consider measuring body composition and progress photos, as these may show changes when the scale doesn't.
Smart Fuel Questions
How does Smart Fuel determine my macro targets?
We start with your TDEE calculation and adjust based on your goals. Protein is set based on body weight and activity level (typically 0.8-1.2g per pound). Fats are set at 20-35% of calories for hormone production. Remaining calories come from carbohydrates, adjusted based on activity level and preferences.
Can I follow the nutrition plan if I'm vegetarian/vegan?
Yes. When you select dietary preferences, Smart Fuel adjusts recommendations to exclude animal products and emphasizes plant-based protein sources. Vegan plans may include suggestions for B12, iron, and omega-3 considerations to ensure nutritional adequacy.
Do I need to hit my macros exactly every day?
Aim for consistency over perfection. Being within 5-10% of your targets most days is fine. Focus on hitting protein targets consistently, as this supports muscle maintenance and satiety. Carbs and fats can vary more day-to-day while maintaining weekly averages.
How important is meal timing for results?
Total daily intake matters more than precise timing for most people. However, eating protein throughout the day supports muscle protein synthesis. If you exercise, having some carbs and protein within 2-4 hours post-workout can optimize recovery, but it's not critical for most recreational exercisers.
Can I use Smart Fuel recommendations with special diets like keto or intermittent fasting?
Smart Fuel can accommodate various eating patterns. For keto, adjust carb targets to stay under 20-50g daily. For intermittent fasting, compress the same daily nutrition into your eating window. The total daily targets remain the same regardless of when or how you distribute the food.
Technical Questions
Is my personal data secure?
Yes. We use industry-standard encryption for data transmission and storage. Your personal information is never sold or shared with third parties for marketing purposes. We only use aggregated, anonymized data to improve our algorithms, and only with your consent.
Can I export my data and recommendations?
Yes. You can export all your personal data, including profile information, tool results, and saved recommendations in JSON format. This allows you to keep records of your recommendations and progress even if you decide to discontinue your membership.
Do you have a mobile app?
Currently, we offer a mobile-responsive website that works well on phones and tablets. A dedicated mobile app is under consideration for future development based on user feedback and demand.
How often do you update your research database?
We continuously monitor new research and update our database monthly. Significant new findings that impact safety or efficacy are incorporated more quickly. Our algorithm evolves as new evidence becomes available, ensuring recommendations stay current with the latest science.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our support team is ready to help with specific questions about tools, recommendations, or account issues.