Calcium intake among U.S. adolescents remains below recommended levels despite increased needs during peak growth. This randomized school-based study evaluated the impact of a brief calcium-focused nutrition curriculum in 11 Oregon middle and high schools. Dietary intake was assessed at baseline and six weeks post-intervention using food frequency questionnaires. The curriculum did not significantly improve calorie-adjusted calcium intake or dairy consumption. Fewer than 20% of students met recommended calcium intake levels. These findings suggest that brief, single-session education is insufficient, and more comprehensive, tailored interventions may be needed to improve adolescent calcium intake.
