FormulaSeek - Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula vs Similac Advance
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who, for various reasons, may not be breastfeeding. Infant formulas are designed to mimic breast milk by providing essential nutrients needed for a baby's development. With numerous options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which formula best meets an infant’s unique needs. Two popular options are Similac Advance and Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula. Each offers distinct benefits, and understanding their differences can guide parents in making an informed choice.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional components of infant formulas like Similac Advance and Enfamil Sensitive are vital as they support the physical and cognitive development of infants. Similac Advance is known for its blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, which are crucial for brain and eye development. It uses a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support baby's health. On the other hand, Enfamil Sensitive is specifically formulated for babies who experience fussiness or gas due to lactose sensitivity. It uses a milk-based protein blend and provides essential nutrients for overall growth. Both formulas include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, but they differ significantly in their compositions and intended benefits.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Similac Advance | Enfamil Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein (Non-lactose) | Milk Protein Isolate |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Partially Hydrolyzed Nonfat Milk, Lactose-Free |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | Palm Olein Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Galactooligosaccharides (Prebiotics) | No Prebiotics/Probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Contains DHA and ARA | Contains DHA and ARA |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard Levels | Standard Levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.50/ounce* | Approx. $0.60/ounce* |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Prices are estimated and may vary by location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance stands out for its added lutein, which, along with DHA and vitamin E, supports a baby's developing brain and eyes. Its inclusion of prebiotics supports digestive health and immune systems. Meanwhile, Enfamil Sensitive is tailored for babies who have lactose sensitivity. Its formulation reduces fussiness and gas by excluding typical lactose-based ingredients and using hydrolyzed proteins that are easier on sensitive bellies.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is suitable for most infants without specific dietary needs, providing a balanced profile for otherwise healthy, term infants. It is ideal for parents looking for an option with comprehensive eye and brain developmental support. In contrast, Enfamil Sensitive is best for infants who show sensitivity to standard lactose-based formulas, making it suitable for babies who experience regular stomach discomfort, such as excessive gas or fussiness, following traditional feeding.
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kendamil Organic Stage 1
- Parent’s Choice Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil Sensitive
- Similac Pro-Sensitive
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
- Up&Up Sensitive Infant Formula
- Burt's Bees Organic Sensitive
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance, although nutritionally robust, may be costlier than some alternatives and might not suit infants with lactose allergies. Enfamil Sensitive is generally more expensive, and its exclusion of certain ingredients may not meet all nutritional needs compared to regular formulas. Both formulas might not be as readily available in every region, which can pose a challenge for consistent purchasing.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between Similac Advance and Enfamil Sensitive depends on the infant's specific dietary requirements and sensitivity levels. Similac Advance is a well-rounded formula ideal for infants without sensitivity issues, while Enfamil Sensitive caters to those with lactose sensitivity, offering a gentler digestive experience. However, as with any nutritional decision impacting a child’s health, parents should always consult with a pediatrician before selecting an infant formula, ensuring the choice aligns with their baby’s specific health needs and conditions.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online
Buy Similac Advance Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 0.30 | 5.60 g | |
| 10.90 g | 0.20 | Carbohydrate | 10.70 g | |
| 2.20 g | 0.13 | Protein | 2.07 g | |
| 0 | Linoleic Acid | 1000.00 | 1000.00 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.
| Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 88.00 mg | 43.00 | Calcium | -43.00 | 45.00 mg |
| 59.00 mg | 17.00 | Phosphorus | -17.00 | 42.00 mg |
| 8.00 mg | 2.00 | Magnesium | -2.00 | 6.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 1.00 mg | 0.25 | Zinc | -0.25 | 0.75 mg |
| 15.00 mcg | 10.00 | Manganese | -10.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | -15.00 | Copper | 15.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.80 mcg | 0.80 | Selenium | -0.80 | 2.00 mcg |
| 33.00 mg | 9.00 | Sodium | -9.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 110.00 mg | 5.00 | Potassium | -5.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 67.00 mg | 2.00 | Chloride | -2.00 | 65.00 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 Sensitive Infant Formula | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 70.00 IU | 10.00 | Vitamin D | -10.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 2.00 IU | 0.50 | Vitamin E | -0.50 | 1.50 IU |
| 9.00 mcg | 1.00 | Vitamin K | -1.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 80.00 mcg | -20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 20.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 140.00 mcg | -10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 10.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.30 mcg | 0.05 | Vitamin B12 | -0.05 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1000.00 mcg | -50.00 | Niacin | 50.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 16.00 mcg | 1.00 | Folic Acid | -1.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 500.00 mcg | 50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -50.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 3.00 mcg | -1.40 | Biotin | 1.40 | 4.40 mcg |
| 12.00 mg | 3.00 | Vitamin C | -3.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mcg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |