Most everyone eats a variety of foods daily, and some foods are eaten more frequently than others. When identifying foods that can contribute to the calcium content of the diet, it's important to realize that foods which offer a small contribution in a single serving may provide an important source of calcium, if consumed frequently. (Nutrition textbooks can provide additional information about the calcium content of foods that girls may eat.)

How Bread Can Provide Needed Calcium

Two slices of unfortified bread can provide 8% of the calcium DV, but growing girls eat bread products often as part of their snacks and sandwiches. If a girl eats 2 slices of toast at breakfast, a sandwich on 2 pieces of bread at lunch, and a large roll with dinner, she has eaten six Food Guide Pyramid servings, which is the minimum amount recommended in this food category. The total contribution to her daily calcium requirement is 24%, which is important. Since girls don't only eat bread, other foods will provide additional calcium and help them meet their calcium requirement.

* Some foods may be high in fat and cholesterol. Read the label to find lower fat and lower cholesterol options. Serving sizes on product labels may vary.

** Some food label serving sizes may be different than the Food Guide Pyramid serving sizes. Adjust the %DV according to the amount you eat.