Babies fed porridge from an early age may be protected against asthma, according to new research.
The earlier infants are introduced to porridge, or other foods made from oats, the less likely they are to develop the respiratory condition, a study by Finnish scientists has concluded.
A team of scientists from Finland studied almost 1,300 children whose parents took part in a diet and lifestyle study between 1996 and 2000. They wanted to see if certain foods either raised the risk of asthma and hay fever, or reduced them.
The results showed babies fed porridge in their first few months of life were 64 per cent less likely to have chest problems as a toddler than those who did not eat it or who started later.
Animal and cell experiments suggest oats may affect the immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties.
[Source]
Chapter: Asthma,Baby :: 5 March 2010
