Sidhu makes U-turn, says wife’s cancer treatment included chemotherapy

New Delhi: Former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, after facing widespread criticism from oncologists, clarified on Monday that his wife, Navjot Kaur, underwent surgeries, chemotherapy, and hormonal and targeted therapy as part of her treatment for stage 4 breast cancer, alongside a strict diet inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda.

Sidhu had previously made controversial remarks in a press conference in Amritsar, where he claimed his wife had “starved” her cancer by avoiding dairy and sugar, while consuming turmeric and neem. The video, which went viral on social media, sparked backlash from medical professionals, including those from Tata Memorial Hospital and AIIMS, Delhi, who denounced his statements for spreading misinformation.

In response, Sidhu posted on X, stating, “My wife’s cancer journey involved surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, positivity, and determination to fight cancer, which was facilitated by a strict diet plan inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda and global scientific research, including Nobel-winning discoveries.”

Sidhu also shared the details of the diet plan, which included alkaline water, various herbal concoctions, intermittent fasting, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and complete avoidance of refined sugar, dairy, and processed foods. The diet was prepared with cold-pressed coconut oil, mustard oil, or olive oil, and included quinoa rotis and homemade almond milk.

While some doctors acknowledged the health benefits of ingredients like neem and turmeric, they emphasized that there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that such foods can cure cancer. They suggested that diet should complement, not replace, conventional cancer treatments.

With IANS inputs