Sonali Bendre Responds to Criticism Over Naturopathy Comments
Sonali Bendre, who overcame stage 4 metastatic cancer in 2018 and was declared cancer-free in 2021, is addressing backlash regarding her statements on naturopathy, particularly her belief in the role of autophagy in her recovery. This comes after medical professionals expressed their concerns about her remarks.
In her original post, Bendre acknowledged a naturopath who introduced her to autophagy, a biological process in which cells degrade and recycle their components. However, her comments drew sharp criticism from healthcare experts, including hepatologist Cyriac Abby Philips, known on social media as “The Liver Doc.” He condemned the practice as “quackery” and cautioned against endorsing unverified therapies for cancer treatment.
Bendre Clarifies Her Position
In response to the criticism, Bendre issued a heartfelt clarification, stating, “I have never claimed to be a doctor, but I am certainly not a quack either. I am a cancer survivor who has experienced the fear, pain, uncertainty, and rebuilding that the disease entails.” She emphasized that her intention was to share her personal journey and insights rather than provide medical advice. “Everything I’ve discussed is based on my own experience … one of the many protocols I explored, after thorough research and medical guidance, was autophagy. It made a difference for me … for me,” she added.
Bendre further emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue, stating, “We don’t all have to agree, but we should avoid dismissing one another simply because we lean toward different approaches … Each person must choose what feels right, safe, and empowering for them.” She reiterated that she was sharing her experiences rather than prescribing a treatment plan.
Concerns from Medical Professionals
Critics, including Dr. Philips, argue that Bendre’s statements may convey a dangerous message. He pointed out that her remission followed conventional medical treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery at a leading cancer hospital. He cautioned that attributing her recovery to autophagy or naturopathy could mislead others into delaying evidence-based treatments. Philips also highlighted the risk of cancer patients being exploited by naturopathy practices that offer false hope.
This controversy illustrates the ongoing tension between personal experiences and scientific evidence. Supporters of Bendre argue that she is merely sharing her reality as a survivor, while opponents express concern that public figures may unintentionally spread misinformation by sharing subjective experiences without scientific backing.
Bendre’s call for mutual respect is significant in a context where patients often feel vulnerable. Her message highlights the necessity of patient agency: she found an approach that worked for her but did not advocate for others to follow her path blindly. The implications of her statements could either foster constructive dialogue or contribute to the spread of misinformation, making this a crucial topic for ongoing discussion.
