FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive vs Similac Alimentum
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
The journey of parenthood brings with it many important decisions, including choosing the right infant formula for your baby. Infant formula is often a vital source of nutrition, especially when breastfeeding isn't an option. It's crucial to select a formula that meets your infant's specific needs to promote healthy growth and development. In this post, we will explore and compare two popular infant formulas: Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas is designed to mimic the nutrients found in breast milk. Similac Alimentum is a specialized formula renowned for its hypoallergenic features, making it an ideal choice for infants with severe food allergies or intolerances. It utilizes hydrolyzed casein protein, which is broken down into smaller peptides, making it easier for sensitive tummies to digest. Its primary carbohydrate is corn syrup solids, and it includes medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and safflower oil as fat sources.
In contrast, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is tailored for lactose-sensitive infants. It features a whey-to-casein ratio that closely resembles breast milk, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. Lactose is replaced by maltodextrin, and it incorporates a blend of vegetable oils, including palm olein, soy, and coconut oil, to provide essential fatty acids.
Key Differences
| Category | Similac Alimentum | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed Casein | Whey-to-Casein Ratio (60:40) |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Syrup Solids | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | MCTs, Safflower Oil | Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Not present | Contains Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard Levels | Enhanced Levels |
| Iron Content | 1.8mg per 100 calories | 1.9mg per 100 calories |
| Calcium Content | 78mg per 100 calories | 82mg per 100 calories |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.75 | $0.65 |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: The prices are estimated and may vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum's standout feature is its hypoallergenic makeup. The extensively hydrolyzed protein allows infants with severe allergies to digest and absorb the formula with minimal discomfort. This can be life-changing for babies who experience colic due to protein sensitivity.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive offers a balance of nutrition with the benefit of added prebiotics, designed to support a healthy gut. With its emphasis on gentle nutrition, this formula can help manage lactose sensitivity while ensuring the infant receives balanced nutrients for overall development, including enhanced levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for brain and eye health.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is most beneficial for babies with diagnosed protein allergies or severe digestive issues. It is typically recommended for infants showing signs of colic or distress linked to milk protein intolerance.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive caters to babies who struggle with lactose sensitivity but do not require hypoallergenic solutions. It offers a gentle approach to managing sensitivities, promoting ease of digestion and nutrient absorption, making it ideal for a broader range of toddlers.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum:
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- EleCare for Infants
- Similac Pure Bliss
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive:
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
One potential drawback of Similac Alimentum is its cost, as specialized formulas tend to be more expensive, which can be a burden for some families. Additionally, its taste and odor might not be appealing to all infants.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive may not be suitable for babies needing a completely lactose-free diet. While it addresses mild lactose sensitivity, children with allergies to soy or corn might require alternative dietary plans.
Conclusion
Selecting the right infant formula can have profound impacts on your baby's health and well-being. Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive offer tailored nutrition to meet the varied needs of infants with specific dietary sensitivities. Similac Alimentum is ideal for those with severe protein allergies, while Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive offers a gentler approach for lactose-sensitive tummies. Always consult with a pediatrician before making changes to your baby's diet to ensure their nutritional needs are comprehensively met.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Online
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.14 | 5.54 g | |
| 10.90 g | 0.70 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 2.10 g | Protein | 0.65 | 2.75 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 200.00 | Linoleic Acid | 800.00 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84.00 mg | -21.00 | Calcium | 21.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 56.00 mg | -19.00 | Phosphorus | 19.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -1.50 | Magnesium | 1.50 | 7.50 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -3.00 | Manganese | 3.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 15.00 | Copper | -15.00 | 75.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 30.00 mg | -14.00 | Sodium | 14.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 107.00 mg | -11.00 | Potassium | 11.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -15.00 | Chloride | 15.00 | 80.00 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -1.50 | Vitamin E | 1.50 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 40.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -40.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -60.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.20 | Vitamin B12 | 0.20 | 0.45 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -300.00 | Niacin | 300.00 | 1350.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 300.00 | 750.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -0.10 | Biotin | 0.10 | 4.50 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 12.00 | Choline | -12.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 19.00 | Inositol | -19.00 | 5.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |