Caffeine is a common substance in many beverages and foods. Too much caffeine can increase your risk of certain side effects. A moderate intake of 300 milligrams of caffeine per day is safe for most people, according to McKinley Health Center.

Calcium plays an important role in the health of your bones and muscles as well as supports the function of your brain and nerves. Hypercalcemia occurs when the calcium in your bloodstream rises to an abnormal level.

Not all flours are created equal. The protein content of wheat flour can vary from 5 to 15 percent, and this variance can greatly affect your recipes. Alternative flours, made from ground legumes or soy, may also offer a high protein content, but a flavor that may not please your palate.

Caffeine's stimulating powers can help you clear away a fog of fatigue and become more mentally alert and focused. The drug is found in several different foods and beverages, especially coffee. Caffeine can also lead to side effects, particularly when the stimulant is taken in large doses.

While not common in North American diets, bone gristle -- also referred to as tendon or cartilage -- is often found in Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines. It can be used as a soup or stew ingredient, as a thickener for broths or eaten seasoned on its own.

Protein powder supplements can be expensive, so it is important to choose a protein powder that not only works effectively but tastes great as well. You are less likely to use the protein if it tastes bad. Protein powders come in two types. Traditional "pure protein"

The average adult who engages in moderate exercise needs about 1 gram of protein for every kilogram of body weight. Endurance and strength-training athletes need 1.2 to 1.7 grams per kilogram, according to the American Dietetic Association.

Whey protein supplements come with a recommended dose -- usually one or two 8-ounce servings per day. Occasionally exceeding that is not likely to cause major problems, but if it gets to the point where whey protein is the bulk of your diet, you could suffer deficiencies.

Different versions of high-protein diets have cropped up on the market for years. The Atkins Diet and the South Beach Diet are two major players in the world of weight loss. Protein powders, bars and shakes are easy to find in grocery and supplement stores.

Kids can use protein powders, and, in fact, many protein supplements are designed specifically for teens and adolescents. However, the risks involved lead to it being a choice you should make with your child’s pediatrician.

Protein is an essential nutrient for all age groups, but it’s particularly critical to get enough as you age. Protein is a backup source of energy when carbohydrates and fat aren’t available, and it helps repair skin and tissues and improves skeletal strength.

A healthy teenage boy should get between 10 and 35 percent of his daily calories from protein, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Without adequate protein, a teen cannot grow and develop properly and his body won't be able to build and repair cellular tissue.