Former Punjab Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu recently shared the inspiring recovery story of his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, who overcame Stage IV cancer despite being given only a 3% chance of survival.
Sidhu confessed to the media that the doctors had initially given little hope during the third stage of her treatment. “Her cancer came back after our son’s marriage, which she insisted on because she doubted her survival. But she never lost hope and faced cancer bravely,” he said.
Sidhu pointed out that his wife underwent the majority of her treatment at government hospitals, including Government Rajendra Medical College in Patiala, with the total cost amounting to just a few lakhs. “She defeated cancer not because we had money but because she was disciplined and followed a strict routine. Cancer can be treated effectively even at government hospitals,” he mentioned.
Alongside her medical treatment, Sidhu emphasised her discipline and lifestyle changes, including a strict diet that played a crucial role in her recovery. According to a report by indianexpress.com, her daily routine included lemon water, raw turmeric, apple cider vinegar, neem leaves, and tulsi. Sour fruits and juices made from pumpkin, pomegranate, amla, beetroot, and walnuts were added to her diet. She also consumed anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer foods, with cooking restricted to coconut oil, cold-pressed oils, or almond oil. Her morning tea featured spices like cinnamon, cloves, jaggery, and cardamom.
Sidhu shared that his wife would have her last meal of the day around 6-6:30 pm, before dusk. The following morning, she would begin her day with lemon water at 10 am, and about half an hour later, she would consume 10-12 neem leaves.
This brings us to an important question — how effective can these dietary changes be in supporting cancer recovery?
Dr Prashant Mehta, medical oncologist at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, describes such claims as “misinformation that is based on no evidence.” He highlights how, in the digital age, social media influencers and celebrities often promote practices they follow personally, which may not be scientifically validated or appropriate for public dissemination.
“These are curious things that people try because they are easily accessible at home,” he explains. “Science is difficult and not as easy to absorb as this.” Dr Mehta emphasises that while medical advice from doctors might seem less exciting or engaging, it is rooted in evidence-based science. He also underscores the responsibility of celebrities to ensure the information they share is accurate and science-backed.
How effective can these dietary changes be in supporting cancer recovery? (Source: Freepik)
Do anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, neem leaves, and apple cider vinegar play any role in cancer recovery?
Going into the specifics, Dr Srinath, Senior OrthoOncologist and Founder at Asha Hospitals and Research Centre, states “Turmeric contains curcumin, a bioactive compound known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that curcumin can inhibit cancer cell growth, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels in tumours), and metastasis. A 2020 review in the journal Molecules found that curcumin induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells while sparing normal cells. However, curcumin’s bioavailability is low, meaning its absorption in the body is limited, which reduces its effectiveness unless consumed with enhancers like black pepper (containing piperine).”
He adds that neem has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its immunomodulatory effects. “Laboratory studies, such as one published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2018), indicate that neem extracts can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to cancer progression. However, clinical studies on its direct effect on human cancer recovery are limited.”
ACV is rich in acetic acid and antioxidants, he states, which are believed to have mild anti-inflammatory effects. “While there is anecdotal evidence of its benefits, robust scientific studies linking ACV directly to cancer recovery are lacking. It may aid digestion and maintain gut health, which can indirectly support immunity during treatment,” highlights Dr Srinath.
Consuming sour fruits like pomegranate, amla, and pumpkin juices
“Rich in ellagic acid and polyphenols, pomegranate has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. A study in Molecular Carcinogenesis (2017) suggested that pomegranate extracts might inhibit the proliferation of certain cancer cells, although more human trials are needed to confirm its role in recovery,” says Dr Srinath.
Ashlesha Joshi, senior nutritionist at Tone30 Pilates, mentions, “Amla is packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can neutralise free radicals and support immune function. Research in the Journal of Cancer Prevention (2019) showed that amla extract might enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy by reducing oxidative stress.”
Pumpkin is a good source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for immune function. While its direct anticancer effects are less established, beta-carotene’s role in reducing oxidative stress can be beneficial during recovery, says Joshi.
Coconut oil, cold-pressed oils, and almond oil in cooking
“Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil is easily digested and converted into energy. MCTs are particularly beneficial for cancer patients experiencing weight loss or fatigue, as they provide a quick energy source without burdening the digestive system. However, its saturated fat content should be monitored,” Joshi remarks.
Unlike refined oils, he agrees that cold-pressed oils retain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Oils like flaxseed or sesame oil can support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation, crucial for cancer recovery. “Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that supports skin health and immune function. It can also help in maintaining a healthy lipid profile during cancer recovery,” she says.
On not eating any meals for several hours at a stretch
Dr Mehta shared that intermittent fasting offers no established benefits for cancer patients, cautioning that “if a patient is diabetic, they can go into ketosis as a result of starvation.” He emphasised the importance of being skeptical about health advice from celebrities and urged individuals to rely on medical professionals for guidance.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr Srinath and Joshi also stressed the necessity of consulting trusted healthcare experts before making significant dietary or lifestyle changes. They advised prioritising science-backed recommendations over easily accessible information found online or on social media platforms.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
