FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who may not be able to breastfeed or need supplementary nutrition for their babies. Infant formulas are meticulously designed to provide essential nutrients similar to breast milk, supporting the growth and development of infants. Two widely recognized infant formulas are Similac Advance and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF. This blog post will compare these products to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Advance and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF are well-formulated to support infant nutrition, but they have different nutritional compositions. Understanding these differences can help you select the best formula for your infant.
Similac Advance uses a cow’s milk protein blend primarily composed of whey and casein, with lactose as the primary carbohydrate source. Fat sources include high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil. The formula contains essential vitamins and minerals to support a baby's growth.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF features partially hydrolyzed proteins, which are easier to digest, with a mix of whey and casein. Lactose is partially substituted with corn syrup solids. The fats in this formula include a proprietary blend of oils that contribute to brain development. It also contains important vitamins and minerals.
Key Differences
The table below highlights the key differences between Similac Advance and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF:
| Feature | Similac Advance | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey, casein | Partially hydrolyzed whey, casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | High oleic safflower oil, soy oil, coconut oil | Blend of vegetable oils |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | Contains prebiotics | No added prebiotics or probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included, at slightly higher levels |
| Iron Content | 1.8 mg per 100 calories | 1.5 mg per 100 calories |
| Calcium Content | 78 mg per 100 calories | 63 mg per 100 calories |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.19 | Approx. $0.26 |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO, not organic | Non-GMO, not organic |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance includes a prebiotic often associated with gut health to support the digestive system. The Formula is intended for routine feeding, providing comprehensive nutrition that mimics breast milk.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF is designed for easier digestion and may reduce fussiness and gas within 24 hours. It contains an MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane) blend, which has been associated with cognitive development benefits in infants.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for healthy infants without lactose sensitivities who require a nutritious and robust formula for daily feeding.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF is often recommended for infants with sensitive tummies, those who are fussy or gassy, or babies who have mild lactose sensitivities. The ready-to-feed packaging provides convenience for on-the-go feeding.
Similac Advance Alternatives
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula with Iron
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
- Baby's Only Organic Dairy Formula
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF Alternatives
- Similac Sensitive
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro Formula
- Similac Alimentum
- Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula
- Happy Baby Sensitive Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance: Some parents may find the formula expensive compared to standard formulas. Additionally, it may not be suitable for babies with certain allergies or lactose sensitivities.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF: This formula is more expensive due to its unique hydrolyzed protein content and easy-to-use packaging. It may not be readily available in all locations and, similar to Similac, may contain controversial ingredients such as added corn syrup solids.
Conclusion
When choosing between Similac Advance and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF, consider your baby’s nutritional needs and any specific feeding challenges you face. Similac Advance offers a robust, gentle-on-the-stomach formula for routine nutrition, whereas Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF targets digestive comfort with its unique protein breakdown and brain-supporting nutrients. Always consult with your pediatrician to determine the best formula for your baby's individual needs, ensuring they receive essential nutrients for healthy growth and development.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.30 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 10.80 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.23 | 2.30 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 220.00 | Linoleic Acid | 780.00 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 | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -37.00 | Calcium | 37.00 | 82.00 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 | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.25 | Zinc | 0.25 | 1.00 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 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 | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -16.00 | Sodium | 16.00 | 40.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -3.00 | Potassium | 3.00 | 108.00 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 | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 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 |