When your 2-month-old seems to spend more of the day sleeping instead of awake and learning about the world, you might worry about whether her sleep needs are excessive. Understanding your baby's sleep needs can help you ensure that she gets just the right amount of sleep and not too much extra.

Protein deficiency is pretty rare in healthy adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. In fact, it states most Americans consume more protein than their body needs. It can be unhealthy to consume too much or too little protein.

Caffeine comes from plant seeds and leaves, but it is a drug that has a physical effect on the body. This chemical usually does not cause any lasting harm, although it is sometimes linked to the development of breast cysts.

Second only to calcium, phosphorous is the most plentiful mineral in your body, and it is necessary for such processes as the production and storage of energy. However, getting too much phosphorus can be dangerous.

People without diabetes do not have to worry about their blood sugar levels because their bodies are able to compensate for whatever amount of carbohydrates they eat by secreting the appropriate amount of insulin.

A protein molecule comprises a string of linked amino acids, folded into a complex globular shape. Digesting the protein in the foods you eat involves unfolding the protein chain and then unlinking the amino acids it contains.

Textured vegetable protein may not be harmful for everyone, but it contains a hidden ingredient that causes reactions in some people. Textured vegetable protein, has MSG, or monosodium glutamate, a common flavor enhancer.

From maintaining fluid balance in your body to helping your muscles contract and relax, sodium plays an essential role in keeping you not only healthy but alive.

Glutamine isn't an essential amino acid, but in certain circumstances, like illness or heavy exercise, your glutamine stores may be low and you may benefit from supplementation. You don't necessarily need to take glutamine on an empty stomach, however, to make sure it works.

Protein is an essential building block of human life that plays a crucial role in cell growth. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and some nutritional companies market amino acid or protein supplements to individuals who want to maintain or increase muscle mass.

Whey is a type of protein found in dairy and is sold in powdered form as a nutritional supplement. Whey powders are rich in protein and low in carbohydrates and fat, so they may be appropriate for use when dieting or attempting to gain muscle.

In 2008, consumers spent more than $2 billion on fitness supplements like protein powder, reports the "New York Times." One such powder is pea protein powder.