Henriette Jaeger taking home a bronze medal in the 400m at the World Athletics Indoor Championships this past spring. Currently, she’s preparing for her next international competitions in China. The 2025 World Athletics Relays will take place at the Guangdong Olympic Stadium in Guangzhou in early May. The Diamond League’s Shanghai meet is scheduled for May 3. Quite a few Norwegian athletes, including Jaeger, will be in attendance at these historic competitions. They are facing a strange problem with their eating habits.
The body responsible for preparing Norway’s best athletes has delivered a severe rebuke. Athletes should plan on not eating any meat during their time competing in China. This caution is the result of fears of committing doping violations. The group raises concerns that some animals in China are given hormone treatments to accelerate their growth. This practice would still unintentionally affect athletes who consume that meat.
Doping Concerns Surrounding Meat Consumption
Henriette Jaeger and other young athletes such as Josefine Tomine Eriksen are clearly listening to this advice. Research has shown that athletes have unintentionally tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol by eating tainted meat while in China. But the risks are considerable. In fact, the consumption of only one meat-based meal prior to taking a doping test can lead to a positive outcome.
“Studies have shown that athletes have inadvertently ingested clenbuterol when eating meat in China, as some animals are fed hormones to promote growth.” – Olympiatoppen
With athletes from all over the country gearing up for their upcoming competitions, following these guidelines has never been more important! Jaeger has made clear her feelings about this charade, and her call to listen to the experts.
“I really enjoy eating meat, and it’s very good for the body when you’re going to compete. But you have to listen to the professionals and trust them.” – Henriette Jaeger
Dietary Adjustments for Competition
Even with her love for meat, Jaeger is resolved to stick to the dietary recommendations while in China. She’s going to pack protein bars from Norway to make sure she’s getting enough nutrition without running the risk of a doping infraction.
Josefine Tomine Eriksen said something similar, adding that she would be very unhappy if she had to give up meat completely.
“I don’t want to be a ‘veggie’, (vegetarian) but you do need a bit of protein, so I’ll bring some protein bars from Norway. Maybe a bit of beef jerky too.” – Josefine Tomine Eriksen
Both athletes demonstrate adaptability in their dietary choices, prioritizing their health and integrity as competitors.
Leave a Reply