Did NSI nutritionist advise Lee Chong Wei adequately on cordyceps?

Question

Accepted Answer

The National Sports Institute (NSI) nutritionist's advice to Datuk Lee Chong Wei regarding cordyceps is under internal review following an eight-month doping sanction.

The NSI nutritionist, Chai Wen Jin, was aware that Datuk Lee Chong Wei was consuming cordyceps and advised him that the capsules were safe as they were food-based, instructing him to use 100% pure cordyceps without additives. However, she did not deem it necessary to have the product tested, citing Lee's long-term use of cordyceps without prior issues. Lee himself had been taking cordyceps since the age of 13, a practice initiated by his mother who believed in its health benefits.
Nutritionist's Awareness and Advice

Chai Wen Jin first became aware of Lee Chong Wei's cordyceps consumption when he presented her with a bottle of the capsules around 2007 or 2008. Her counsel focused on ensuring the purity of the cordyceps, advising him to consume only 100% pure forms without any additives. This advice was given under the assumption that cordyceps, being food-based, posed no inherent risk.
Lack of Product Testing

Despite the advice, Chai Wen Jin did not consider it necessary to conduct testing on the cordyceps capsules Lee was taking. This decision stemmed from the fact that Lee had reportedly been using cordyceps for many years prior to this discussion, and there had been no reported adverse effects or doping violations during that extended period. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) doping hearing panel, however, later stated that this prior advice, given many years ago, was not a sufficient justification for continued consumption over several years.
Lee Chong Wei's History with Cordyceps

Lee Chong Wei's personal history with cordyceps dates back to his childhood, beginning at age 13 due to his mother's belief in its health-promoting properties. Over time, he received these capsules as gifts from the wife of an influential Malaysian figure, who would process raw cordyceps into powdered and encapsulated form. These capsules were reportedly provided without labels or descriptions, raising questions about their exact composition and handling.
NSI's Internal Review and Policies

In light of the doping violation and the BWF panel's judgment, NSI chief executive officer Datuk Dr Ramlan Aziz has indicated that an internal inquiry will be conducted. This review aims to examine all relevant reports to determine if Lee Chong Wei received inadequate advice. The institute also plans to identify all parties who worked closely with Lee and to reassess its internal policies to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Dr Ramlan also expressed doubt regarding the Health Ministry's approval of cordyceps supplements and stated the need to examine the product packaging.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Did NSI nutritionist advise Lee Chong Wei adequately on cordyceps?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends