11. It helps strengthen the immune system
Baby’s immune system is still developing, leaving baby vulnerable to illnesses. Fortunately, oatmeal has several immune-boosting nutrients.
The beta-glucans in oatmeal help baby’s white blood cells quickly respond to fight off infections. And the zinc, magnesium, and selenium in oatmeal also help strengthen baby’s immune system.
12. It promotes healthy eating!
It’s well-known that introducing healthy foods — like oatmeal — early and often promotes lasting nutritious eating habits later in life.
But introducing healthy oatmeal doesn’t just equip babies to choose this particular healthy food later on.
Why? Oatmeal is a perfect vehicle to introduce other healthy foods — mainly, a variety of fruits and vegetables.
The possibilities are endless with baby oatmeal! You can mix in any pureed, mashed, or chopped veggies and fruit (as long as they are prepared in a way that’s safe for baby to digest).
This also means oatmeal’s a great way to introduce baby to new veggies and fruits as they move through their solid food journey. Pairing the new food with the familiarity of the oatmeal may make baby more likely to accept the new taste.