Can I give oats during a fever?

December 15, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2021 research review, oats contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that can help boost the immune system and aid digestion. This makes many wonder, can I give oats during a fever? The short answer is yes, oats can be a beneficial and comforting food choice during an illness.

Quick Summary

Oats are a soothing, nutritious, and easy-to-digest food suitable for consumption during a fever. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and calories to support the body's recovery. Plain oatmeal is recommended, avoiding excessive sugar or heavy additions that could irritate a sensitive digestive system.

Key Points

Oats are safe during fever: Cooked oats are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients to support recovery without irritating a sensitive stomach.
Keep it simple: For best results, prepare oats with water or light broth, avoiding heavy milk, excessive sugar, or rich toppings.
Rich in vital nutrients: Oats contain important vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium, which help boost the immune system during illness.
Aids hydration: Preparing oatmeal with fluids helps contribute to overall hydration, which is crucial when the body is losing water through sweat.
Provides energy: The complex carbohydrates in oats offer a steady source of energy needed for recovery, preventing the energy crashes associated with sugary foods.
Avoid irritants: When you're sick, it's best to avoid fried foods, high-sugar snacks, and excessive spices, which can worsen symptoms and hinder recovery.
Listen to your body: If appetite is low, focus on fluids first. Small, frequent portions of plain, bland foods like oatmeal are often best.

The Role of Oats in Managing Fever Symptoms

When you or a loved one is unwell with a fever, appetite often diminishes while the body's need for nutrients increases. Oats are an excellent choice because they are bland, gentle on the stomach, and pack a substantial nutritional punch. They provide a steady release of energy from complex carbohydrates, which is vital for fighting infection and avoiding the blood sugar crashes associated with processed, sugary foods.

Nutritional Benefits of Oats During Illness

Easy on the Digestive System: Cooked oatmeal is a soft, comforting food that is easy to swallow and digest, especially when dealing with a sore throat or a weak stomach.
Immune-Boosting Nutrients: Oats are rich in minerals like copper, iron, selenium, and zinc, all of which are crucial for supporting immune function.
Hydration Support: When prepared with water or light broth, oatmeal contributes to your fluid intake, which is essential for staying hydrated when a fever increases fluid loss through sweating.
Energy and Recovery: Fever can be draining. The carbohydrates in oats provide the calories needed for energy without taxing the digestive system, helping the body recover more quickly.

How to Safely Prepare Oats for a Sick Person

The way you prepare oats is critical to ensuring they are easy to tolerate. Here are some tips:

Keep it Simple: Opt for plain, simple oatmeal cooked with water or a mild broth. Avoid excessive sugar, rich milk, or heavy toppings.
Avoid Irritants: During an illness, the digestive system is often more sensitive. Therefore, it's best to steer clear of strong spices, fried foods, and fatty dairy products that can cause discomfort.
Add Soothing Flavors: A small amount of honey can soothe a sore throat and provide antibacterial properties. Mashed bananas can add natural sweetness and beneficial potassium.
Consider Cooking Method: For easiest digestion, use instant or rolled oats. For steel-cut oats, it may be beneficial to soak them overnight to help break down the phytic acid, which can make digestion easier.

Comparison of Oats vs. Other Bland Foods for Fever


Food Type	Pros During Fever	Cons During Fever	Preparation for Illness	Digestive Ease	Nutritional Value
Oats	Excellent source of nutrients, energy, and fiber.	Can cause gas and bloating if consumed in large amounts too quickly.	Cook with water or light broth; avoid heavy additions.	High; soft and soothing.	High; vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein.
Rice	Easy to digest, part of the BRAT diet.	Lower in fiber and vitamins compared to oats.	Cook plain and serve with broth or light vegetables.	High; bland and gentle.	Moderate; simple carbs for energy.
Broth	Excellent for hydration and electrolyte replenishment.	Provides minimal calories or fiber for energy.	Chicken, vegetable, or bone broth; serve warm.	High; liquid form is very gentle.	Moderate; electrolytes, some minerals.
Yogurt	Provides probiotics for gut health.	Dairy can thicken mucus in some individuals; potential for excess sugar in flavored versions.	Choose plain yogurt with live cultures and low sugar.	Moderate to High; depends on individual tolerance.	High; protein, calcium, probiotics.

Foods to Avoid When You Have a Fever

To ensure a speedy recovery, it's just as important to know what to avoid as what to eat. Some foods can increase inflammation, dehydrate you, or put unnecessary strain on your digestive system.

Fried and Greasy Foods: These are difficult to digest and can cause bloating and nausea.
Sugary Snacks and Drinks: High sugar intake can suppress the immune system and cause inflammation.
Caffeinated and Alcoholic Beverages: Both are diuretics and can lead to dehydration, which is counterproductive when battling a fever.
Spicy Foods: Heavily spiced dishes can irritate a sensitive stomach.
Dairy (for some): While some can tolerate it, dairy can increase mucus production and congestion.
Processed Foods: Often high in sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, these offer little nutritional value.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice with Oats

When faced with a fever, providing the body with the right fuel is essential for recovery. Oats are a safe, nutritious, and easily digestible option that can offer comfort and crucial nutrients during this time. By preparing them simply with water and avoiding heavy or sugary additions, you can provide a warm, soothing meal that aids in hydration and immune support. Always listen to the body's cues and opt for bland, nourishing foods to help manage fever symptoms and promote a swift return to health.

For more detailed information on nutrition during sickness, consider consulting authoritative health sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cooked oats are considered very easy to digest due to their soft texture and soluble fiber content, making them an excellent choice when appetite is low and the digestive system is sensitive.

Prepare plain oatmeal with water or a mild broth. Avoid adding excessive sugar, fatty dairy, or spices. A touch of honey or mashed banana can add flavor and nutrients without causing irritation.

While some people tolerate dairy, it's often recommended to avoid it during a fever as it can increase mucus production in some individuals. Opt for water or a plant-based milk alternative instead.

Instant or rolled oats are generally the easiest to digest. Steel-cut oats can also be used, but soaking them overnight can improve their digestibility.

Oats provide essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and selenium to support the immune system. They also offer fiber and complex carbohydrates for energy, which is needed for a strong recovery.

You should avoid fried and greasy foods, sugary snacks and drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and heavily spiced or processed foods. These can worsen symptoms and delay recovery.

It's best to eat bland, yet nutritious foods. Oats are a great example, as they are gentle on the stomach while still providing vital vitamins, minerals, and energy to help the body heal.