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Can we feed oats to babies


Oats for Babies - Can Babies Eat Oats? - First Food for Baby

When can babies eat oatmeal?

Oats may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Oats are commonly cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains, rendering them no longer gluten-free, so those with celiac disease should take care and buy certified gluten-free oats. Granola, which often contains oats, is a choking hazard and may contain honey, which is unsafe for babies under 12 months.

Need more first food ideas? Our First Foods Essentials bundle has everything you need to get started.

Oatmeal vs. rice cereal

In general, oat cereal has an edge over rice cereal: rice and rice products tend to be higher in arsenic. While arsenic can be found in many grains and other foods due to contamination of the soil, oats are among the grains lower in arsenic.1 2 To reduce a child’s exposure to heavy metals, focus on products that use multiple grains, including oats. 3 Generally speaking, amaranth seed, barley, bulgur (wheat), corn, farro (wheat), or millet as main ingredients have been shown to contain the lowest levels of heavy metals compared to other grains.4 For more information on heavy metals in foods, read our post here.

Recommended Guide: 50 Fantastic First Foods for Babies

Where do oats come from?

Oats are a family of cereal grasses that are widely cultivated for the edible seeds that we call grains. Humans have been consuming oats since ancient times, and while the exact origin of the plant is unknown, historians believe that wild oat grasses may have originated in the fertile lands of North Africa and Southwest Asia. Today, the plant thrives worldwide wherever the weather is wet and cool—from the South American plains where oats are called avena, to the Northern European flatlands where the grain is known as coirce and havre. Whether it’s made of chewy groats, steel-cut oats, or instant oatmeal, oatmeal and other grain porridges have been served to babies since the days before refrigeration.

Are oats and oatmeal healthy for babies?

Yes. Oats and oatmeal are packed with healthy carbohydrates and contain a special form of fiber called beta-glucan, which is particularly beneficial for gut and immune health. They are a great source of zinc, which supports baby’s immune system, taste, and smell, with smaller amounts of other nutrients, including folate, choline, iron, magnesium, and selenium, to name a few. Oats are incredibly dense in phytonutrients— plant compounds that have a host of benefits in the human body—such as quercetin, rutin, phytosterols, alkaloids, and more.5 6 7 Many infant oatmeal products also contain added nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and sometimes vitamin C to aid in iron absorption.

★Tip: When buying instant oatmeal, products marketed for infants aren’t your only option. Regular instant oatmeal is also fine for babies and can expose them to more varied texture than infant cereals. Just take care to read labels closely and opt for products with no added sweeteners.

Does infant cereal have to be baby's first food?

No. Infant cereal, oat-based or otherwise, does not have to be a baby’s first food. Baby cereals were historically recommended as a first food because they are often fortified with iron, an essential nutrient that tends to be low in babies consuming primarily breast/human milk starting around 4-6 months of age. However, other iron-rich foods can be offered instead of or in addition to infant cereals. For a list of foods high in bioavailable iron, check out our Top 25 Iron-Rich Foods for Babies & Toddlers.

Are oats gluten free?

It depends on the specific product. Even though oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains (such as wheat, barley, rye, and triticale), rendering them no longer gluten-free. 8 9 If a baby or toddler has celiac disease, be sure to read labels and opt for certified gluten-free oats.

Can babies drink oat milk?

No. Prior to 12 months, the only liquids an infant should receive are breast (human) milk, infant formula, and if the baby is older than 6 months of age, water in small amounts (about 2-4 ounces / 60-120 milliliters a day) in an open cup.10 11 If oat milk is used as an ingredient in solid food, then it is acceptable to serve before 12 months of age.

If, after the first birthday, you’d like to introduce unsweetened oat milk as a beverage, it’s fine to do so, but know that oat milk is not the most nutritious plant-based milk for toddlers; typically, fortified soy or pea milk contain more key nutrients.12 While oat milk is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D, it’s often very low in protein, which is important for a growing child.13 See our Milk FAQs to learn more.

Can babies have raw oats?

It depends on the type. Most rolled oats or instant oats are typically heat-treated to kill harmful germs, so they’re technically not raw.14 15 On the other hand, steel-cut oats may not be as extensively heat-treated, so there is an increased risk of foodborne illness if this type is not cooked before offering to baby.16 In addition, uncooked oats of any kind can be harder for baby to eat and digest. If offering uncooked oats, then plain rolled or instant oats offer a better choice from a food safety perspective. As always, make sure to store oats in an airtight container in a cool, clean, dry area.17

Can babies have granola?

Yes, as long as the granola is free of honey and finely ground up. If granola contains any common food allergens (such as tree nuts and sesame), make sure that the foods have been safely introduced before grinding up the granola to sprinkle on baby’s food.

Traditionally, granola is dense in texture, requiring advanced chewing skills, and contains nuts and dried fruit which are common choking hazards. In addition, it may contain potentially allergenic foods, such as tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, and wheat. Granola can also often be high in added sugar and possibly contain honey, which is unsafe for babies under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism. That said, when these issues are addressed, finely ground granola can be a fun topping for yogurt, cooked fruits, and more. For breakfast inspiration, see our strawberry granola or coconut granola recipes.

Can babies have oatmeal made with milk?

Yes. Once dairy has been safely introduced and ruled out as an allergen, cow’s milk can be used to make oatmeal and other solid foods. However, babies should not consume cow’s milk as a drink until closer to 12 months of age because it lacks the nutrition that breast (human) milk and formula offer and can displace the desire for breast (human) milk or formula. For more information on introducing milk and dairy to babies, see our Milk FAQs.

Can oats help baby poop?

Yes. Oats offer good amounts of fiber—beta-glucan in particular—as well as resistant starches, in addition to other qualities, which in combination with a balanced and varied diet, can help support overall digestive health and bowel regularity.18 19 20 Resistant starches “resist” typical digestion and instead travel to the large intestines, where they feed beneficial gut bacteria.21 22 23 Note that pooping patterns can vary significantly from child to child. Be sure to talk to your pediatric healthcare provider if you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function.

Are oats a common choking hazard for babies?

No, cooked oats and oatmeal do not pose a particular risk of choking, although in theory, an individual could choke on any food. Forms of baked oatmeal, baked goods made with oats, and granola certainly can pose a risk. To minimize the risk, offer baked goods cut into age-appropriate sizes and finely grind granola. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during mealtimes. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

Are oats a common allergen?

No, oats are not a common cause of IgE-mediated allergies, although reactions to oats have been reported, particularly when the grains are applied to the skin of sensitive individuals.24 Keep in mind that many foods that are prepared using oats, such as cereals, breads, and other baked goods, may contain common allergens such as dairy, eggs, tree nuts, and wheat.

Oats and other oat products are a common trigger of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, also known as FPIES. FPIES is a rare and delayed allergy to food protein which causes the sudden onset of repetitive vomiting and diarrhea to begin a few hours after ingestion of the food trigger. Left untreated, the reaction can result in significant dehydration. 25 26 Fortunately, most cases resolve completely by early childhood. To learn more about FPIES, read our post on Food Allergens and Babies.

If baby has celiac disease, be sure to read product labels and opt for certified gluten-free oats. Despite oats being naturally gluten-free, many oats and oat products can be cross contaminated with gluten-containing grains (such as wheat, barley, and rye), rendering them no longer gluten-free.27 28 Celiac disease requires a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet and lifestyle.29 A gluten “allergy” is typically a misnomer, often in reference to celiac disease.30

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings and watch closely for any signs of an allergic reaction. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the amount over future servings.

Recommended Guide: Introducing Allergens

How do you prepare oats and oatmeal for babies with baby-led weaning?

Every baby develops on their own timeline, and the suggestions on how to cut or prepare particular foods are generalizations for a broad audience. Your child is an individual and may have needs or considerations beyond generally accepted practices. In determining the recommendations for size and shape of foods, we use the best available scientific information regarding gross, fine, and oral motor development to minimize choking risk. The preparation suggestions we offer are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for child-specific, one-on-one advice from your pediatric medical or health professional or provider. It is impossible to fully eliminate all risk of a baby or child choking on any liquid, puree, or food. We advise you to follow all safety protocols we suggest to create a safe eating environment and to make educated choices for your child regarding their specific needs. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen here.

6 to 9 months old: Prepare oatmeal with water, breast (human) milk, formula—or with whole cow’s milk once it has been safely introduced. Read more about cooking with breast milk. Remember, no honey until after age one due to the risk of infant botulism. To encourage self-feeding, preload a spoon with oatmeal and pass it in the air for baby to grab it. Cooking oatmeal a bit longer and uncovered helps it reach a consistency that clings to spoons more easily or can be rolled into balls, which tend to be easier for young babies to self-feed.

9 to 12 months old: Continue to offer oats as oatmeal and try serving it two ways: as a ball for baby to hold and as a porridge that baby can scoop up with hands. You can also experiment with oats in other finger foods for baby: blueberry buttermilk pancakes, grain balls, lamb meatballs, or muffins.

12 to 24 months old: By this age, toddlers may be growing tired of warm cereals if it’s been a regular meal, so don’t worry about taking a break from oatmeal in favor of finger foods like pancakes, energy balls, or meatballs. You can also get creative by offering different types of oats: for example, try using steel-cut oats in place of rice to make butternut squash risotto. When you do serve oatmeal at this age, try sprucing up the dish by adding fruits, pulverized nuts, nut butters, or even a dollop of mascarpone cheese.

Cook oatmeal with the lid off until stiff, let cool, then form into balls. Oatmeal in this form is easier for babies 6 months+ to self-feed.

Mix up your mornings with ideas from our guide, 50 Breakfasts for Babies & Toddlers.

What are recipe ideas for cooking with oats?

Oatmeal is a simple way to introduce the grain to baby, and an excellent vehicle with new ingredients and textures. Experiment with alternative cooking liquids like buttermilk or coconut milk. Stir in a pinch of spice like cinnamon or walnut that has been finely ground into powder. Mix in mashed fruit to add bright color, or use oatmeal as a base to make energy balls. Or use rolled oats to make a batch of strawberry granola or coconut granola. Oatmeal is often sweetened, but it tastes delicious with savory flavors, too: try adding squash puree and warm spices like cardamom, garam masala, or mace. Or take a cue from the Scots and make skirlie, a savory oatmeal made with onions, butter, spices, and drippings from cooked meats.

Recipe: Baby’s First Oatmeal

Yield: 1 cup (240 milliliters)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Age: 6 months+

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (40 grams) dry instant oats
  • ¾ cup (180 milliliters) water
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) breast milk or formula (optional)
  • 1 pinch pre-soaked chia seeds (optional)

This recipe contains oatmeal, which may include wheat (a common allergen) Be sure to check the ingredient list on the label and only serve to a child after any allergens have been safely introduced. Avoid oatmeal with honey, which should not be given to babies under 12 months of age.

Directions

  1. Place the instant oats in a baby bowl.
  2. Bring the water to a boil, then pour into the bowl. Stir to combine.
  3. Let the oatmeal sit until thickened, about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the breast milk or formula if desired.
  5. If you like, add pre-soaked chia seeds on top.
  6. Serve the oatmeal and let baby try to self-feed. If baby needs help, preload a spoon and rest it next to the bowl for baby to try to pick up. Alternatively, pass the preloaded spoon in the air for baby to grab from you.

To Store: Baby’s First Oatmeal keeps in a sterile air-tight container in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Learn more about cooking and storing foods made with breast milk.

Flavor Pairings

Oats pair well with blueberry, cherry, coconut, ghee, pear, and strawberry.

Reviewed by

J. Truppi, MSN, CNS

V. Kalami, MNSP, RD, CSP

K. Tatiana Maldonado, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, CLEC

K. Grenawitzke, OTD, OTR/L, SCFES, IBCLC, CNT

Dr. S. Bajowala, MD, FAAAAI. Board-Certified Allergist & Immunologist (allergy section)

Dr. R. Ruiz, MD, FAAP. Board-Certified General Pediatrician & Pediatric Gastroenterologist

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  14. Hingham, B. (2019). The safety of raw oatmeal. University of Wisconsin-Madison. Retrieved March 30, 2022
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  28. Pinto-Sánchez MI, Causada-Calo N, Bercik P, Ford AC, Murray JA, Armstrong D, Semrad C, Kupfer SS, Alaedini A, Moayyedi P, Leffler DA, Verdú EF, Green P. (2017). Safety of Adding Oats to a Gluten-Free Diet for Patients With Celiac Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical and Observational Studies. Gastroenterology. 153(2):395-409.e3. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2017.04.009. Retrieved March 30, 2022
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Oats for Babies - Health Benefits, Nutritional Content & Recipes

Until six months of age, it is ideal if your baby is only breastfed, as breast milk has all the nutrients required for his growth during this time. However, once your baby touches the six-month mark, he is not only ready for new foods but will also need them for proper growth and development. Many parents lean towards fruits and vegetables when they begin to introduce new foods to their babies. However, when the same fruits and vegetables are fed along with other foods that are high in energy, the nutritional value increases considerably. Oats are one such food that we shall discuss in this article. Read on to know more.

Video: Oats for Babies – Benefits and Recipes

Are Oats Good for Babies?

Oats are considered a good food option for babies as they are rich in minerals, vitamins, fibre and antioxidants. They are thus a good source of energy for your baby. Oats also aid digestion and are very light in comparison to rice. It has been found that oats are the only cereal that the least number of children are allergic to. However, it is still recommended that you consult a paediatrician before you start feeding oats to your baby to rule out any adverse reactions.

When Can You Start Feeding Oats to Your Baby?

You can start feeding oats to your baby once he turns seven months. Begin with simple oat recipes like oats porridge. When your baby is comfortable with oats porridge, add flavours by adding fruits and veggies. But, ensure that you introduce only one additional ingredient at a time to gauge his likes and dislikes, and to check for allergies.

Health Benefits of Oats for Infants

Oats are packed with nutrition, and have many health benefits, particularly for infants. Here are some of them:

1. Bone Development and Neurological Functioning

Oats contain minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorous, potassium, sodium and magnesium that are essential for the development of your baby. Here’s a brief on how each mineral contributes towards the growth and development of your little one.

  • Calcium and phosphorous build bone strength, so that your baby has strong bones.
  • Iron maintains the levels of haemoglobin and helps tackle anaemia.
  • Potassium and sodium are known to aid in developing the neurological functions in the body.
  • Magnesium helps generate energy and improve dental and bone health in infants.

2. Enables Healthy Growth

The presence of vitamins like folate, vitamin B6, vitamin K, vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin make oats an essential supplement for the growth and development of your baby. 

3. Lowers the Risk of Attack by Free Radicals

Oats has a healthy amount of antioxidants that can lower the risk of attack by free radicals in the body and should, therefore, be an essential part of a baby’s diet.

4. Provides Energy

Every 100 grams of oatmeal provides 400 kcal of energy for babies. This energy is essential for infants in their developmental stage as it aids their growth spurts. 

5. Eases Digestion

Oats have a high amount of dietary fibre which is required for a proper bowel movement. Because your baby’s digestive system is still developing, oats can aid digestion without putting any strain on your baby’s system.

Nutritional Value of Oats

Oats are rich in nutrients vital for your baby. Here is a complete list of nutrients that oats contain.

Type of nutrition Quantity (per 100 g serving) Type of nutrition Quantity (per 100 g serving)
Vitamin K 4.1 mg Energy 407 kcal
Protein 11.08 g Total Lipid (fat) 9.5 g
Carbohydrates 68.5 g Fibre 10 g
Sugars 3. 8 g Calcium 54 mg
Iron 2.5 mg Magnesium 106 mg
Phosphorous 610 mg Potassium 420 mg
Sodium 9.5 mg Zinc 5.39 mg
Thiamin 0.8 mg Riboflavin 3.313 mg
Niacin 1.0 mg Vitamin B-6 0.563 mg
Folate 56 ug Vitamin E 0.1 mg

Types of Oats Your Baby Can Eat

There are several types of oats that are safe for babies to consume. Here are some of them:

  • Baby oatmeal cereal is easily available in powdered form. You only need to mix it with breast milk or water and feed your little one.
  • If you cannot find baby oatmeal cereal, you can feed your baby normal oatmeal Just cook it properly and puree it to form a smooth paste.
  • Instant pre-cut oatmeal is another option you could use. Although it is not recommended as pre-cut oatmeal is the most processed form of oatmeal, it can be used only where there is no other option.
  • Then, there are the rolled oats which also need to be cooked in boiling water for at least five to six minutes. Ensure you mash the cooked oats before and only then feed your baby.
  • Steel-cut oats can also be fed to babies. Although these aren’t easy to find, they are known to be quite delectable.

So, now you know which oats to feed your little one, let’s take a look at how to select them and how to store them.

How to Select and Store Oats

While your baby can eat most kinds of oats, it is best to refrain from giving him instant oatmeal or anything that is over-processed as it will be left with little to no nutrition to offer. Hence, the best move is to find steel-cut or regular oats for your baby. Store them in airtight containers and keep them in a cool and dry place to make them last longer. If your house is warm, you can keep the container in the refrigerator.

Things to Remember While Feeding Oats to Your Baby

Before you introduce oats to your baby, you must remember a few things to ensure your baby gets the most benefits of this food item.

  • Only start solids after six months of regular breastfeeding in order to avoid any adverse reactions to the food.
  • Select the right kind of oats that are semi-processed or steel-cut.
  • Boil the oats properly for about 20 to 30 minutes or a little longer till they are soft enough for the baby to digest them easily.
  • Give your baby plain cooked oats the first time and check if he has an allergic reaction. You can feed your baby oats pudding with additions of fruits if there are no allergies. However, if there is one, consult the doctor immediately.

Oats Recipes for Babies

If you plan on introducing oats to your baby, here are some simple recipes that can help you.

1. Apple Oats Porridge Recipe


Ingredients

  • 1/4th cup of regular oats
  • 1 cup of water
  • One apple, peeled and grated or pureed

Method

  • Boil the oats in 1 cup of water. You may powder the oats and then boil them for a smoother consistency.
  • Keep stirring regularly to prevent it from getting burnt.
  • Once the oats are cooked, add the grated/pureed apple and stir well.
  • You may cook the mixture for a couple more minutes.
  • Let it cool completely before feeding it to your baby.

2. Simple Oats Porridge Recipe


Ingredients

  • 1/4th cup of oats
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1/4th cup of breast milk

Method

  • Boil the oats in a cup of water. Ensure you cook them thoroughly.
  • Mix this porridge with breast milk.
  • Bring it to room temperature before feeding your baby.

3. Baby Oatmeal and Banana Bars Recipe

This recipe is great finger food for older babies.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup ground oats
  • 1 mashed banana

Method

  • Combine the cooked oats and mashed bananas.
  • Press this mixture into shapes of your choice.
  • Keep them on a baking tray.
  • Bake at 180 degree Celsius for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • If you want to keep the bars chewy, you may bake them for a shorter period.

4. Banana and Oats Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/4th cup of oats
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 banana, pureed

Method

  • Cook the oats in a cup of water till they are soft.
  • Add pureed banana and stir well.
  • Serve when cooled.

5. Vegetable Oats

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon diced carrots
  • 2 tablespoon diced potatoes
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 2-3 cups of water
  • A pinch of salt (optional)

Method

  • In a pan, pour some water and boil the vegetables till they are soft.
  • Add the oats and boil it till it is cooked properly.
  • You may add more water if needed.
  • Add salt to taste.
  • Let the dish cool down before feeding it to your baby.

Oatmeal for babies is a great supplement once they are ready to try solid foods. Remember to introduce new foods to your baby gradually and after proper consultation with a paediatrician. As much as possible, try providing organic food items to your baby for best benefits.

References and Resources

amaraorganicfoods.com

Also Read: Healthy and Delicious Oats Recipes for Babies

When to introduce oatmeal into complementary foods for babies

— Ekaterina Borisovna, is it possible to give oatmeal for the first complementary foods and how useful is it for a child?

- Oatmeal is a gluten cereal, so it is not suitable for the first feeding . But in the second half of life - depending on when you started cereal complementary foods - the baby can try this wonderful product in all respects.

Benefits of oatmeal for children


  • Rich in protein, vegetable fats, is an excellent source of slow carbohydrates, energizes the baby for a long time, creates a feeling of satiety.
  • The amino acids that make up this porridge are involved in protein synthesis, building muscle fibers and the formation of protective antibodies.
  • Useful fiber has a protective effect on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, and also stimulates the bowels.

Oatmeal naturally combines a variety of vitamins B, E, PP, as well as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, iodine, zinc and other micronutrients.

  • B vitamins are involved in metabolic processes, including those in nerve cells.
  • Calcium and phosphorus help strengthen bones and teeth.
  • Iodine is essential for normal thyroid function.
  • Potassium normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

— Pediatricians do not recommend ordinary oatmeal for complementary foods. What is the reason for this?

- Adult oatmeal is made from whole oatmeal that has undergone minimal mechanical processing. Such grain contains more useful substances, but absolutely is not suitable for baby food . The emerging enzyme system of the baby is not yet ready to break down the coarse structure of oatmeal. And the use of porridge from it, most likely, will cause disturbances in the work of the immature gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, oatmeal from an adult diet is not suitable for feeding children under one year old.

Oatmeal in complementary foods: what and how much to give

- What should be oatmeal for a child under one year old?

— For baby food, fragrant oatmeal is used, obtained by grinding oat kernels, which have undergone a special heat treatment. It retains the maximum amount of useful substances, and its delicate structure has a protective effect on the mucous membrane of the digestive tract.

Types of baby oatmeal

— Dairy-free mono porridge is suitable for the first feeding with oatmeal and feeding babies with allergies. Toddlers who are not allergic to cow's milk proteins can try milk oatmeal with goat's or cow's milk. Do not forget that goat's milk is closer in structure to breast milk and is easier to digest, because when it is curdled in the stomach, a tender loose clot is formed, which is well broken down by enzymes. It is also less allergenic, so goat's milk cereals are suitable for feeding children at risk of developing an allergy to cow's milk protein .

Fruits, vitamin-mineral complexes, probiotics can be added to porridge to improve taste, as well as to enrich it with fiber and useful micronutrients. This normalizes digestion and helps the baby better adapt to a new type of product. In addition, nutritional supplements provide a complete diet.

— When to introduce oatmeal into baby food?

- Oatmeal - complementary foods for a child over 6 months of age, it is introduced only after acquaintance with gluten-free cereals - rice, corn, buckwheat. If complementary foods are not started before six months, this does not mean that you can give oatmeal for the first complementary foods. First of all, you still need gluten-free cereals, you can’t use gluten-containing oatmeal. Let me remind you that gluten is a protein that is difficult to digest, and its introduction too early can provoke disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.


See also
  • about gluten-free cereals for the first meal

— How much oatmeal should a child be given?

- Oatmeal is given in accordance with age norms. The first complementary food is a few teaspoons, gradually the amount of porridge is brought to the desired volume.

Medium serving size of oatmeal:

  • 6-7 months 100-150g;
  • 7-8 months - 180 g;
  • 9-12 months - 200 g;

All figures are arbitrary: the baby can eat a little less, a little more, it's not critical. But we must remember that oatmeal contains a lot of phytic acid, which is able to form insoluble compounds with calcium and remove it from the body. Therefore, you can offer oatmeal to your baby no more than two or three times a week and only once a day.


Allergy to porridge

— Ekaterina Borisovna, why do some children refuse oatmeal?

- Toddlers usually enjoy eating oatmeal. But there are exceptions to all rules. If there is a refusal of oatmeal, first of all it is worth evaluating the reaction of the child to this type of complementary foods. Perhaps he is worried about digestive problems after eating it, which means that the body is not yet ready to break down gluten.

If everything is in order with the tummy, the child may simply not like the taste of porridge . What you can try to do, provided that oatmeal is well tolerated:

  • change porridge from dairy-free to dairy;
  • replace cow's milk porridge with more tender and tasty goat's milk porridge;
  • offer porridge with fruit and berry additives.

From such a variety, the baby will surely be able to choose a dish that will suit his taste. If this does not help, never force-feed a child . You should postpone the introduction of oatmeal for a couple of weeks or a month. After a while, the baby will be able to re-evaluate the taste of this wonderful food.

— Food allergies are not uncommon. Can a child be allergic to oatmeal?

- Allergy to oats is extremely rare. Skin rashes and stool disorders with the introduction of oatmeal are most likely associated with gluten intolerance. In this case, the following are possible:

  • a transient state - it is caused by age-related immaturity of the enzyme system;
  • true allergy is a congenital condition called celiac disease.

If signs of allergy appear, you should pause for two to three weeks and again offer oatmeal complementary foods to the baby. If the symptoms return and occur when eating other foods containing gluten (wheat, barley porridge), it is important to contact a pediatrician to clarify the diagnosis.

But not always when eating oatmeal, the child reacts to gluten. The cause of the allergy may be the milk in its composition. This happens in pediatric practice. Let's say the baby has never tried porridge or mixtures based on cow's milk before, and the mother followed a dairy-free diet. In this case, he already has a certain probability of developing an allergy to milk protein. And as soon as the baby's diet is supplemented with a highly allergenic cow's milk protein, he begins to react with skin rashes and stool changes.


Buy oatmeal for feeding or cook yourself

- It has already been noted that regular oatmeal is undesirable for an infant . But some parents turn a blind eye to this. Continuing the conversation, we will once again touch on home-made cereals and cereals of industrial production. What's better?

— For children of the first year of life, it is preferable to use ready-made baby cereals of industrial production. There are several reasons for this.

— How to cook oatmeal for complementary foods: what should parents remember?

— For making porridge at home, high quality flakes are used, previously ground in a blender to the state of flour. Consumption - 5 g (approximately 1 tsp) per 100 ml of water. Oatmeal is poured into boiling water and boiled, stirring constantly, for 7-10 minutes.

To improve the palatability of porridge , you can add a little breast milk or the usual milk formula, butter. Fruit or fruit and berry puree, fresh fruits and berries can be tasted after a year. Honey, due to its highly allergenic properties, should not be given to babies.

— Consider instant cereal for kids. Which oatmeal should you choose?

- First of all, you should pay attention to the manufacturer. Choose large manufacturers that have proven themselves in the baby food market.

Next, we study the packaging. It should look neat, be free of dents and damage. High-quality applied paint will not wear off at the slightest friction.

Information about the composition of porridge must be clearly written in an understandable language. In addition to oatmeal, in the list of components you can find cow or goat milk, fruit and vegetable or fruit and berry supplements, vitamins with minerals, probiotic flora.

Baby food porridge may not contain:

  • salt;
  • modified starch;
  • artificial colors;
  • genetically modified foods;
  • fragrances;
  • flavor enhancers.

— How does MAMAKO ® baby cereal help digestion?

— The manufacturer's line includes children's oatmeal with goat's milk in two varieties — milk oatmeal and milky oatmeal with prunes, which perfectly diversify the diet with new taste sensations.

Both cereals contain 32% healthy goat's milk, which is perfectly digestible and has a positive effect on digestion. In the stomach, it curdles into a soft clot, and its small fat globules and fatty acids are easily broken down in the baby's body.

Also, these cereals are enriched with the best helpers of the child's body:

  • Ca+Fe+I - an indispensable complex for the prevention of rickets, iron and iodine deficiency;
  • fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K - are involved in cell metabolism, enzyme systems, redox processes;
  • vitamins of group B - responsible for the formation of the nervous system, take part in energy metabolism, muscle work;
  • vitamin C - the main antioxidant;
  • niacin, folic and pantothenic acids, biotin and other useful substances.

Of all the variety of baby food, I recommend my patients to opt for goat milk cereals from MAMAKO ® . These oatmeal porridges have a delicate taste, an optimally balanced composition, are well tolerated and cause allergic reactions to a lesser extent in babies predisposed to them.

Oatmeal is an indispensable product in the nutrition of a young child. It is an excellent source of fiber and complex carbohydrates and contains the most important nutrients for your baby. Oatmeal not only normalizes bowel function, but also has a mild enveloping effect on the stomach and facilitates digestion.

For the first feeding, it is better to use ready-made cereals. Healthy babies can buy cereals both in cow's and goat's milk. To feed babies prone to functional disorders of the digestive tract, as well as those at risk of developing allergic conditions, it is preferable to use oatmeal with goat's milk. They cause digestive disorders to a lesser extent and are less allergenic.

* Breast milk is the best food for babies. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a child's life and continued breastfeeding after complementary foods are introduced until the age of 2 years. Before introducing new products into the baby's diet, you should consult with a specialist. The material is for informational purposes and cannot replace the advice of a healthcare professional. For nutrition of children from 6+ months. The product is certified.

at what age to give, how much. How to cook oatmeal for children, recipe

Contents

Hercules and other types of oatmeal are considered much healthier than other cereals. After all, this culture contains a lot of trace elements, vitamins and is well digested. Therefore, most parents try to introduce porridge from oats into complementary foods as early as possible. But pediatricians advise to act more carefully. After all, this porridge, like other products, has its own contraindications, and its abuse can lead to a violation of the baby's health.

Benefits of oatmeal for children

Its grains contain a record content of folic acid, thiamine, riboflavin and other B vitamins. Oatmeal helps to restore hemoglobin levels, strengthen the bones of the skeleton, connective tissue, visual apparatus, nervous system. It supports the work of endocrine organs, helps to eliminate toxins from the body, improves blood composition.

Regular use of oatmeal provides the cells with essential nutrients, improves the condition of the skin and mucous membranes, eliminates their irritation. The delicate structure of the product avoids inflammatory reactions from the digestive tract. And the fiber of cereals helps the intestines and perfectly relieves it of constipation. In addition, oats are high in calories. Due to the high content of protein and fats, it quickly restores physical strength, provides satiety for a long time.

Despite the saturation of carbohydrates, the glycemic index of oatmeal is low, it is allowed to be eaten by children with impaired glucose metabolism. Oats can harm the body with gluten intolerance. Its grains contain a lot. Do not use this porridge with persistent diarrhea.

Oatmeal for children with diabetes is contraindicated due to the presence of starch in it.

Oatmeal for children: at what age to introduce complementary foods

Babies up to 7-8 months often cause allergies to gluten, as insufficiently necessary enzymes are produced in their intestines. Therefore, it is recommended to give your child oatmeal no earlier than at 9-10 months. Until this period (up to 6 months), the menu should be expanded with gluten-free cereals: rice or buckwheat.

How to cook oatmeal for a child

Choose from the whole variety of oatmeal groats sold, it is desirable to use ordinary long-cooked oatmeal. It is more troublesome with it, but this product contains the whole set of useful substances, and there are not many of them in refined ready-made food. Whole grains of oats for babies are not advisable to use. They cook for a very long time, losing a lot of vitamins in the water.

General recommendations

For children under 1 year of age, grind the cereal in a coffee grinder, and cook the porridge in water without sugar or salt. It is allowed to use oatmeal - oatmeal. You can add a little butter or kefir to the finished dish. For those who have teeth, you can cook crushed or whole flakes to train your chewing skill.

First serving - no more than 2 tsp. At the beginning of complementary foods, oatmeal does not need to be combined with other new foods. It is better to give it in the morning in order to take action in time for allergies. If the child does not have stool disorder, colic, skin rash and itching during the day, oatmeal is allowed for the child. More than 2 times a week to feed the baby with this product should not be in order to avoid a lack of calcium. Phytic acid in the composition of cereals prevents its absorption

Milk-based oatmeal is allowed for children over 1 year of age. It can be cooked in milk or a mixture of it with water, fruit purees can be added to the dish: banana or pear. You can sweeten oatmeal with a little sugar, honey, or berries.

How much oatmeal should I give my child?

  • At 1-2 years old, the size of one medium serving of porridge is about 100 g.
  • Children 2.5-3 years - about 150 g.
  • At 4–5 years, a single dose can be increased to 200–250 g.

Oatmeal with milk for a child, recipe

Ingredients for 1 serving: