A study by scientists suggests the earlier toddlers are fed porridge (or other oats-based foods), the less likely they are to develop asthma.The research shows the risk of asthma later in childhood is reduced by almost two thirds in babies who were given oats before 5 months old, compared with those introduced to them later. However, these findings will further confuse parents who are following World Health Organisation recommendations to exclusively breastfeed for 6 months before weaning.