FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who either cannot or choose not to breastfeed. Infant formulas are designed to provide the essential nutrients necessary for a baby's growth and development. With various options available in the market, understanding the differences between formulas can help parents make informed decisions. This post will compare two popular infant formulas: Similac Advance and ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, highlighting their nutritional components, special features, and suitability for different babies.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Advance and ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula are formulated to support infants' nutritional needs. However, they differ in their sources of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Similac Advance is known for its OptiGRO blend, which includes DHA, lutein, and vitamin E. Its protein is primarily derived from cow's milk, with a whey-to-casein ratio close to that of breast milk. The formula uses lactose as its main carbohydrate source and includes safflower, soy, and coconut oils as its primary fat sources.
ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula is unique in that it uses whole milk protein and avoids any palm or corn syrup. The formula's carbohydrate source is lactose, mirroring human milk. Its fats are derived from a blend of high-oleic sunflower oil, coconut oil, canola oil, and algae oil for DHA supplementation. ByHeart emphasizes its blend of organic ingredients and non-GMO certification.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance | ByHeart Whole Nutrition |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein ratio similar to breast milk | Whole milk protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower, soy, and coconut oils | Sunflower, coconut, canola, and algae oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Includes prebiotics (FOS) | Contains both prebiotics and probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included in OptiGRO blend | Algae oil for DHA |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Enhanced for growth | Balanced levels of iron and calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approximately $0.55 | Approximately $0.70 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Organic and Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary by location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance's claim to fame is its inclusion of OptiGRO, a unique blend of ingredients mimicking the nutrients found in breast milk, which supports overall growth and brain development.
ByHeart Whole Nutrition emphasizes its clean ingredient list, avoiding palm oil and corn syrup. Its blend of prebiotics and probiotics supports digestive health and the immune system. Additionally, its focus is on whole ingredients, with certifications that appeal to health-conscious parents.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is generally suitable for most infants without specific dietary needs or allergies. It may also benefit those requiring enhanced growth support due to its OptiGRO nutrient blend.
ByHeart Whole Nutrition is ideal for parents looking for a formula with more organic ingredients, no palm oil, or corn syrup, and additional digestive health support. It may also cater to infants who have mild sensitivities or allergies to more processed ingredients.
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant
- Gerber Good Start Gentle Pro
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
Alternatives to ByHeart Whole Nutrition
- Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Premium Infant Formula
- Kendamil Organic Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance may be cost-prohibitive for some families, and the presence of soy can be a concern for some infants with allergies or specific dietary preferences. Availability can be an issue in certain regions due to high demand.
ByHeart Whole Nutrition is generally more expensive and may not be available at all retail locations. Additionally, some parents might prefer more established brands as ByHeart is newer to the market.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac Advance and ByHeart Whole Nutrition offer strong nutritional profiles for infants. Similac Advance is an excellent choice for parents seeking a well-rounded formula with added nutrients for growth and development. ByHeart Whole Nutrition suits those who prefer organic, clean ingredients and additional support for digestive health. Ultimately, parents should consider their infant's specific needs and consult with a pediatrician when choosing a formula.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | Fat | 0.20 | 5.80 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.40 | Carbohydrate | 10.30 g | |
| 2.07 g | 0.07 | Protein | 2.00 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 300.00 | Linoleic Acid | 700.00 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 Advance | +/- | Minerals | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -33.00 | Calcium | 33.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -4.00 | Phosphorus | 4.00 | 46.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.80 | Iron | -0.80 | 1.00 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.05 | Zinc | -0.05 | 0.70 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 23.00 | Copper | -23.00 | 67.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -12.00 | Sodium | 12.00 | 36.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 107.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 2.00 | Chloride | -2.00 | 63.00 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 Advance | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -10.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 50.00 | Niacin | -50.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 1.40 | Biotin | -1.40 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | -2.00 | Choline | 2.00 | 26.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 18.00 | Inositol | -18.00 | 6.00 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 |