Junk food PSHE

Lesson Title: Junk Food and Energy Drinks – Hidden Dangers and Health Risks (PSHE / Health Education)
This eye-opening KS3/KS4 PSHE lesson explores the serious health risks linked to junk food and energy drink consumption. Students examine the physical, emotional, and behavioural effects of sugar, caffeine, and processed foods through NHS data, real-life case studies, and practical comparison tasks. The lesson promotes healthier decision-making and critical awareness of food marketing.

Lesson Aims:

Understand what junk food and energy drinks are and why they’re harmful

Identify the health effects of excessive sugar, fat, salt, and caffeine intake

Explore symptoms and risks of caffeine overdose, especially in young people

Compare energy drinks with sports drinks and analyse misleading branding

Investigate the link between junk food and diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression

Learn how to read food labels and spot hidden sugars and caffeine sources

Reflect on peer pressure, marketing influence, and strategies for healthier choices

Perfect for PSHE, Food Technology, or Health Education. Supports health literacy, wellbeing, and informed lifestyle choices.