Keith Sweat says a decision he made as a teenager still shapes his lifestyle decades later.
The Harlem-born artist revealed he stopped eating beef and pork at age 18. He credits that early choice with helping him maintain discipline and long-term health.
Sweat, known for hits like “Twisted” and “Nobody,” has remained active in music since the 1980s.
In a recent interview clip circulating online, the singer described how family advice influenced his diet. He said, “I stopped eating beef and pork when I was 18.”
He added, “My dad told me that it sits in your system and rots.”
Early Influence Shapes Lifelong Habits
Sweat said the idea stayed with him because it “totally disgust[ed]” him.
That reaction led him to avoid those meats entirely. He has maintained that decision for decades without returning to them.
The singer grew up in Harlem, where he was exposed to different cultural perspectives on food.
In another interview moment, Sweat referenced conversations with Muslims in his neighborhood. He suggested those interactions also shaped his thinking about diet.
He said he has now lived without beef or pork for more than 20 years.
The artist framed the decision as part of a broader commitment to self-control. He did not present it as a strict rule for others.
Health and Longevity in the Spotlight
Sweat linked his dietary choice to staying healthy while performing. Touring and recording can demand long hours and energy.
He has continued releasing music and performing live well into his 60s.
The singer suggested that consistency plays a key role in longevity. His approach reflects a wider trend among entertainers prioritizing wellness.
Sweat did not cite medical research in his comments. However, his reasoning reflects a belief shared in some communities about digestion and meat consumption.
Despite changing food trends, Sweat has not altered his stance. He emphasized that the decision came early and never changed.
“I’ve only tried to live that way,” he said, referring to his diet.