FormulaSeek - Enfamil Nutramigen vs Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula


Updated: 12/7/2024


Introduction

Choosing the right infant formula is a pivotal decision for parents who may not be able to or decide not to breastfeed. It directly impacts a baby’s health, development, and comfort. Among the myriad options available, Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula and Enfamil Nutramigen are two specialized formulas designed to meet the needs of specific infant populations. Enfamil Sensitive is tailored for babies with sensitivity to lactose, while Nutramigen is designed for infants exhibiting an allergy to cow's milk protein.

Nutritional Composition

When choosing between Enfamil Sensitive and Nutramigen, understanding the nutritional differences is crucial. Enfamil Sensitive is tailored to help with gassiness and fussiness, often caused by lactose sensitivity. Nutramigen, on the other hand, offers extensive protein hydrolysis, which helps in managing cow's milk protein allergy.

Enfamil Sensitive contains partially hydrolyzed proteins, whereas Nutramigen features extensively hydrolyzed proteins, delivering them in the simplest, easily digestible forms. Carbohydrate sources also differ, catering to varied digestive capacities.

Key Differences

Feature Enfamil Sensitive Enfamil Nutramigen
Protein Source Partially Hydrolyzed Protein (whey/casein) Extensively Hydrolyzed Protein
Carbohydrate Source Corn Syrup Solids Corn Syrup Solids, Modified Corn Starch
Fat Source Palm Olein Oil, Soy Oil Safflower Oil, Palm Olein, Coconut Oil
Prebiotics/Probiotics None Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
Omega-3 Levels DHA & ARA DHA & ARA
Iron Content High Sufficient with additional nutrients
Calcium Content Standard Standard
Estimated Cost per Ounce Approximately $0.90* Approximately $1.30*
Organic/Non-GMO Certification Non-GMO Non-GMO

*Please note that prices are subject to change and may vary by location and retailer.

Special Features and Benefits

Enfamil Sensitive is specifically formulated for babies who have a hard time digesting regular cow's milk formulas. Its reduced lactose content helps in minimizing fussiness and gas. Enfamil Nutramigen, rich in extensively hydrolyzed proteins, targets cow's milk protein allergy, and features probiotics for gut health support.

Target Audience

Enfamil Sensitive is ideal for infants experiencing sensitivity to lactose without an allergy to cow's milk. Meanwhile, Enfamil Nutramigen is beneficial for those with diagnosed cow’s milk allergies, ensuring a safe and nurturing dietary solution.

Alternative to Enfamil Sensitive

  • Similac Sensitive
  • Gerber Good Start Gentle
  • Earth’s Best Sensitivity
  • Parent's Choice Sensitivity
  • Comforts for Baby Sensitivity

Alternative to Enfamil Nutramigen

  • Similac Alimentum
  • Gerber Extensive HA
  • Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic
  • Up&Up Hypoallergenic
  • Earth's Best Soy Infant Formula

Potential Drawbacks

For Enfamil Sensitive, while it addresses minor lactose sensitivities, more profound lactose or protein allergies may require alternative solutions. This product may also feature higher pricing compared to standard formulas.

Regarding Enfamil Nutramigen, the cost can be significantly higher because of its specialized formulation. Availability might also be an issue, as not every outlet may stock it routinely. Additionally, its taste might be less favored compared to regular infant formulas.

Conclusion

Enfamil Sensitive is a reassuring choice for infants with mild sensitivities to lactose, offering relief from common digestive issues. In contrast, Enfamil Nutramigen promises a reliable substitute for infants battling cow's milk protein allergies. Each formula brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring the well-being of your child as its primary goal.

Parents should always consult a pediatrician when selecting an infant formula to make sure it aligns with their baby’s unique health requirements and dietary concerns. Consider also factors like cost, availability, and how your baby reacts to the formula. No matter what, a careful informed decision is the step forward in ensuring a happy, healthy infant.

Sources*

Buy Enfamil Nutramigen Online

Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online

+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.

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Nutrient comparison

Enfamil Nutramigen +/- Data +/- Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
5.30 g Fat 5.30 g
10.30 g Carbohydrate 0.60 10.90 g
2.80 g 0.60 Protein 2.20 g
780.00 mg 780.00 Linoleic Acid 0

Minerals comparison

Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.

Enfamil Nutramigen +/- Minerals +/- Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
94.00 mg 6.00 Calcium -6.00 88.00 mg
52.00 mg -7.00 Phosphorus 7.00 59.00 mg
8.00 mg 0.00 Magnesium 0.00 8.00 mg
1.80 mg 0.00 Iron 0.00 1.80 mg
1.00 mg 0.00 Zinc 0.00 1.00 mg
25.00 mcg 10.00 Manganese -10.00 15.00 mcg
75.00 mcg 0.00 Copper 0.00 75.00 mcg
15.00 mcg 0.00 Iodine 0.00 15.00 mcg
2.80 mcg 0.00 Selenium 0.00 2.80 mcg
47.00 mg 14.00 Sodium -14.00 33.00 mg
110.00 mg 0.00 Potassium 0.00 110.00 mg
86.00 mg 19.00 Chloride -19.00 67.00 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.

Enfamil Nutramigen +/- Vitamin +/- Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
300.00 IU 0.00 Vitamin A 0.00 300.00 IU
60.00 IU -10.00 Vitamin D 10.00 70.00 IU
2.00 IU 0.00 Vitamin E 0.00 2.00 IU
9.00 mcg 0.00 Vitamin K 0.00 9.00 mcg
80.00 mcg 0.00 Thiamin (Vit B1) 0.00 80.00 mcg
90.00 mcg -50.00 Riboflavin (Vit B2) 50.00 140.00 mcg
60.00 mcg 0.00 Vitamin B6 0.00 60.00 mcg
0.30 mcg 0.00 Vitamin B12 0.00 0.30 mcg
1000.00 mcg 0.00 Niacin 0.00 1000.00 mcg
16.00 mcg 0.00 Folic Acid 0.00 16.00 mcg
500.00 mcg 0.00 Pantothenic Acid 0.00 500.00 mcg
3.00 mg 0.00 Biotin 0.00 3.00 mcg
12.00 mg 0.00 Vitamin C 0.00 12.00 mg
24.00 mg 0.00 Choline 0.00 24.00 mg