Level: Level 2
Age Group: 16+
Prerequisites: None

Guided Learning Hours:

• Short Self‑Paced (SSP): 4 hours (4 CPD points) – covers Learning Outcomes 1–4 only
  
• Self‑Paced/Tutor‑Led: 16 hours 40 minutes (16 CPD points) – covers all 10 Learning Outcomes, excluding the written tasks
• Tutor‑Led (Extended): 25 hours (18 CPD points, including 2 additional points for the written tasks)

This CPD in Understanding Ultra‑Processed Foods and Their Impact on Metabolic Health explores how industrially processed foods contribute to the growing burden of metabolic disorders and compromised health. Participants will examine the classification of ultra‑processed foods (UPFs), their prevalence and rise in global diets, and how their consumption is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome, and related conditions. 

The course also investigates psychological and behavioural dynamics, environmental and societal influences, and the role of health and fitness professionals in supporting dietary change. Learners will gain practical strategies to reduce UPF consumption, promote whole‑food alternatives, and integrate this knowledge into client‑centred wellness programmes aimed at improving metabolic health.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define ultra‑processed foods and distinguish them from minimally processed and whole foods
• Explain how UPFs affect metabolic health, including links to obesity, insulin resistance, and non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Understand the environmental, societal and public‑health implications of high UPF consumption
• Identify and implement strategies to reduce UPF intake at individual and population levels
• Recognise the role of fitness and health professionals in educating clients about UPFs and transitioning to whole‑food diets
• Explore the psychological drivers of UPF consumption and apply coping strategies to manage cravings and addictive behaviours
• Analyze global consumption trends of UPFs and their implications for metabolic health
• Evaluate public‑health initiatives aimed at reducing UPF consumption and their effectiveness
• Understand cultural, socioeconomic and media influences on UPF consumption
• Foster personal responsibility, self‑monitoring and accountability in reducing UPF reliance for improved metabolic wellbeing

Short Self‑Paced (SSP) & Self‑Paced/Tutor‑Led:
Participants will complete automarked questions aligned with each assessment criterion. These assessments provide immediate feedback and ensure comprehension of both theoretical and practical aspects of the content.

Tutor‑Led (Extended):
Participants will complete three written student tasks applying course theory to case‑studies involving UPF consumption and metabolic health interventions. These tasks are tutor‑marked with tailored developmental feedback to support applied learning and critical thinking.

Total Assessment Time Required: 16 hours 40 minutes

This CPD offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the adverse impact of ultra‑processed foods on metabolic health, and the corresponding opportunities for intervention. By combining evidence‑based research, behavioural insight, and practical tools, professionals working in nutrition, fitness, wellness and healthcare will be better equipped to guide clients towards healthier dietary patterns. The result: improved metabolic outcomes, reduced disease risk, and stronger client support for sustainable lifestyle change.

The course specification outlined below include the learning outcomes, assessment requirements, and all associated assessment criteria.