Hidden sugars PSHE

Lesson Title: Hidden Sugars – Understanding Where Sugar Hides and How to Reduce It (PSHE / Healthy Lifestyles)
This engaging and informative KS3/KS4 PSHE lesson reveals the health risks of consuming too much sugar and helps students identify hidden sugars in everyday foods. Using interactive tasks, product comparisons, and real-life data, students learn how to make healthier choices and understand the impact of sugar on the body and brain.

Lesson Aims:

Define hidden sugars and recognise how they’re listed on ingredients labels

Understand the short- and long-term health effects of excess sugar (e.g. obesity, tooth decay, diabetes)

Learn the government’s recommended daily sugar allowance for children and adults

Analyse how “healthy” foods like smoothies and sauces may contain high levels of sugar

Explore the impact of sugar on the brain and mood

Develop practical strategies to reduce sugar intake at home and school

Reflect on healthier food swaps and how to read nutrition labels critically

Perfect for Healthy Eating units in PSHE, Science, or Food Technology. Supports health education, informed decision-making, and lifestyle awareness.