Anyone with diabetes or dieting might be interested in a cooking class being offered by the Dallas County Extension Office.

The school was offered once before three years ago and is back by popular demand, according to extension coordinator Callie Nelson.

“Dallas County has a high incident of type two diabetes. We started focusing on providing diabetes education for the community several years ago,” Nelson said. “We are trying to fulfill a need people in the community have been asking for.”

The cooking school is designed to teach people how to cook and eat healthier to help manage diabetes although it is also open to anyone.

“We are focused on reducing fat, understanding artificial sweeteners and how to reduce salt intakes so dishes that people cook can manage high blood pressure and other chronic diseases,” Nelson said.

Nelson said when parents and adults eat healthier, it could motivate youth to do the same.

Nelson said this would result in an overall healthier community.

“We hope those who come understand that cooking healthier can still taste good. A lot of people don’t think they will enjoy the flavor of the food if they are reducing sugars, salts and fats,” Nelson said.

Cooking classes will be taught be Christina Levert, a regional agent with the Cooperative Extension System. They will be held at the YMCA of Selma and Dallas County from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays starting on May 19.

There is a $10 fee for the six-part class series that will go toward buying supplies. However, Nelson said if there is anyone who can’t afford the fee won’t be turned away.

Those who are interested must register ahead of time by calling the extension office at (334) 875-3200.

Nelson believes healthy food intake is vital to living longer lives.

“Learning to eat healthier will improve the overall quality of life, and even extend them. We have to remember that we are what we eat,” Nelson said.