I don't eat pork or beef. I cut that out when my father passed away about 20 years ago. I wanted to modify my diet because he passed away from diabetes. And, you know, it's very hereditary.

In this quote, Tony Cardenas explains how the passing of his father due to diabetes led him to make significant changes to his diet. He shares that he decided to stop eating pork and beef after his father's death, driven by the desire to modify his lifestyle and potentially avoid the same health issues. This decision was influenced by the understanding that diabetes is a hereditary condition, and he wanted to take control of his health by making dietary changes.

Cardenas’ statement reflects the impact of personal loss on health choices, showing how a major event, like the death of a loved one, can inspire people to reevaluate their lifestyle and make changes to prevent similar outcomes. By eliminating pork and beef, which are often high in saturated fats and associated with various chronic diseases, Cardenas was taking a proactive step in managing his health, especially in light of his family’s genetic predisposition to diabetes.

The reference to hereditary factors also underscores the role of genetics in health and disease. Cardenas recognizes that some health conditions, like diabetes, can be passed down through families, making it even more important for him to make lifestyle adjustments. His decision to modify his diet wasn’t just about personal preference but about understanding the genetic risks that he might face as a result of his family history.

Ultimately, Cardenas’ quote highlights the power of dietary changes in addressing health risks, particularly when influenced by family history. His choice to eliminate pork and beef was a personal and preventive measure, reflecting how a health scare or loss can motivate individuals to take control of their well-being through lifestyle and dietary modifications.