YMCA Program Encourages Healthy Habits for Latinos

A new program lets you go beyond a quick-fix summer shape up and encourages the entire family to get involved.

For Latino families looking to make long-term lifestyle changes, the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA offers Salsa, Sabor y Salud (Food, Fun and Fitness). The next session runs from May 7 through June 25.

“For many the words 'salsa y sabor' can awaken taste buds and emotions, describing the both the flavor of food and the flavor and essence of life,” program coordinator Glarisol Garcia said.

The program is the first national program of its kind designed to encourage healthy lifestyles among Latino families. The national, bilingual program, developed by the National Latino Children’s Institute, celebrates Hispanic and Latino culture and is geared toward families with children ages 12 and younger.

The eight-week program includes weekly themes such as family reunions, food portions, the use of herbs, spices and marinades to increase flavor, how to increase levels of activity, and how to make healthy lifestyles part of every family’s tradition.

“With the knowledge and tools for building healthy lifestyles, Latino families can create energy balance and improve awareness of habits leading to better nutrition,” Garcia said. Good nutrition and physical activity are two of the most important elements for healthier living."

Lecy Sanchez, 39, and her family, including her three children and her mother, participated in the first Salsa session. She said that they were looking for ways to make changes and implement a healthy lifestyle.

Before the program, they knew what they should be doing, but didn't practice it, she said. Now the entire family continues to benefit from the lessons they took away from the sessions.

The way that Garcia presented information about choosing the right foods and healthy ways to prepare meals "was amazing," Sanchez said.

"No more canned foods for us," she added.

“Through this initiative we will bring families together to learn healthy habits and achieve greater health and well-being, while providing the support and encouragement to bring about meaningful, lasting change,” said Rebecca Bray, spokeswoman for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA.

Sanchez said the program delivered on its mission -- her family has adopted new habits that are worth keeping, and the food they prepare tastes better than ever.

Would she recommend the program to others?

"Definitely yes," she said.

For  information or to register, call 813-382- 5469.