FormulaSeek - Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents, particularly when breastfeeding may not be an option. The perfect formula supports an infant's growth, development, and nutritional needs. This is especially important for babies with specific dietary requirements or medical conditions. In this blog post, we'll compare two popular formulas: Similac NeoSure Post Discharge, designed for preterm infants transitioning home, and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, known for its organic ingredients and easy digestibility.
Nutritional Composition
Nutritional composition is a defining factor when selecting an infant formula. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge focuses on providing higher-calorie content to support underweight or premature infants. Its protein source includes both whey and casein, creating a blend that mimics breast milk's natural proteins. Meanwhile, Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula is formulated with an emphasis on easy digestion using whey as the primary protein source, minimizing discomfort for sensitive tummies.
Both formulas differ in their carbohydrate sources: Similac utilizes lactose, whereas Earth's Best incorporates maltodextrin to reduce lactose concentration for sensitivity. The fat sources in both include essential oils necessary for infant growth but vary significantly in combination and type, impacting digestibility and long-term health impacts.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge | Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein | Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Maltodextrin, Reduced Lactose |
| Fat Source | High Oleic Safflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | Palm Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | N/A | Prebiotics (GOS) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard | Enhanced |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Higher | Standard |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.25 (estimated) | $0.30 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Organic, Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge stands out due to its high-calorie formula and added nutrients, such as higher iron content, tailored for preemies recovering and building weight. Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, with its organic certification and prebiotics, is crafted for infants with sensitive digestion, supporting gut health and easy nutrient absorption.
Target Audience
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is best suited for premature infants or those with unique nutritional requirements when leaving the hospital. In contrast, Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula is formulated for infants with a sensitivity to lactose or those needing a gentler formulation without sacrificing nutritional content.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
- Enfamil NeuroPro Enfacare
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Premature Infants: Infacare Preterm Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kendamil Organic First Infant Milk
Alternatives to Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Formula
- Kabrita Goat Milk Formula
- Baby's Only Organic Lactorelief
- Similac Sensitive Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge's higher iron content could lead to constipation, and its specialized nature may come with a higher price. Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, while organic, is on the pricier side, and its inclusion of palm oil has been scrutinized due to potential health and ethical concerns. Availability may vary geographically, affecting continuous access.
Conclusion
Both Similac NeoSure Post Discharge and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula have their unique strengths, each catering to different infant needs. Similac is ideal for preterm babies requiring added nutritional support, while Earth's Best is great for those with sensitivities preferring organic options. Regardless of choice, it is essential for parents to consult with a pediatrician to ensure the formula chosen aligns with their infant's health and developmental needs.
Sources*
Buy Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula Online
Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 0.20 | 5.50 g | |
| 10.80 g | 0.70 | Carbohydrate | 10.10 g | |
| 2.30 g | Protein | 0.50 | 2.80 g | |
| 750.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 mg |
Ingredient comparison
Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.
Minerals comparison
Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 82.00 mg | -23.00 | Calcium | 23.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 46.00 mg | -16.00 | Phosphorus | 16.00 | 62.00 mg |
| 8.00 mg | -1.00 | Magnesium | 1.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 1.00 mg | -0.20 | Zinc | 0.20 | 1.20 mg |
| 15.00 mcg | 5.00 | Manganese | -5.00 | 10.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | -45.00 | Copper | 45.00 | 120.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.80 mcg | 0.50 | Selenium | -0.50 | 2.30 mcg |
| 36.00 mg | 3.00 | Sodium | -3.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 108.00 mg | -34.00 | Potassium | 34.00 | 142.00 mg |
| 63.00 mg | -12.00 | Chloride | 12.00 | 75.00 mg |
Vitamins comparison
Vitamins from both formulas are listed in the center. If they exist in a formula they will have a value next to them. The difference will be show under the +/- column for easy visibility.
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | -50.00 | Vitamin A | 50.00 | 350.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 2.00 IU | -1.60 | Vitamin E | 1.60 | 3.60 IU |
| 9.00 mcg | -2.00 | Vitamin K | 2.00 | 11.00 mcg |
| 80.00 mcg | -95.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 95.00 | 175.00 mcg |
| 140.00 mcg | -10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 10.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -40.00 | Vitamin B6 | 40.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 0.30 mcg | -0.10 | Vitamin B12 | 0.10 | 0.40 mcg |
| 16.00 mcg | -9.00 | Folic Acid | 9.00 | 25.00 mcg |
| 500.00 mcg | -300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 300.00 | 800.00 mcg |
| 3.00 mcg | -6.00 | Biotin | 6.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 12.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 15.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 8.00 | Choline | -8.00 | 16.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -29.00 | Inositol | 29.00 | 35.00 mg |
| 1000.00 mcg | -950.00 | Niacin | 950.00 | 1950.00 mcg |