A recent report on "exercise-induced anaphylaxis after eating wheat-based foods" has drawn significant attention from many sports enthusiasts in the capital city, making such foods a major taboo before exercise for a time. However, sports nutrition experts point out that if there is no wheat allergy, there is no need to avoid wheat-based foods before exercise. It is best, however, to finish eating two hours before exercising.
Dr. Cao Jianmin, head of the Exercise Biochemistry Research Office at the Beijing University of Physical Education, stated in an interview with reporters that exercise-induced anaphylaxis after eating wheat-based foods primarily refers to a small minority of people who are allergic to wheat themselves. For these individuals, consuming wheat-based foods and then exercising accelerates blood circulation and metabolism, which can exacerbate the allergic reaction and even trigger anaphylactic shock. However, the population with a wheat allergy in China is a minority. In sports nutrition, it is also recommended that athletes or people engaging in exercise eat wheat-based foods two hours beforehand, as they are easily digested and absorbed, and have a high sugar content, providing a sufficient source of carbohydrates for energy. As for the choice of wheat-based foods, it can be based on personal taste; for example, oatmeal for breakfast, and steamed buns, noodles, or twisted rolls for lunch and dinner. However, one must be sure to finish eating two hours before exercise to avoid stomach discomfort during physical activity.