FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Selecting the right infant formula is a pivotal decision for parents who are unable to breastfeed or choose formula feeding for other reasons. With myriad options available, understanding the nutritional profile and benefits of each can significantly impact a child’s early development. Among popular choices, Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive stand out for various reasons. This blog post will explore their differences, nutritional benefits, and the specific needs each formula caters to, to assist parents in making an informed choice.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive are designed to provide essential nutrients required for a baby's growth and development. Here's a breakdown of their nutritional components:
- Similac Advance: This formula contains a blend of whey and casein protein, designed to mimic breast milk. It primarily uses lactose as the carbohydrate source, combined with safflower, soy, and coconut oils for fats. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, and iron, it supports bone health and cognitive development.
- Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive: Specifically tailored for babies with lactose sensitivity, this formula includes a special protein blend and alternative carbohydrate sources, such as corn syrup solids, to ease digestion. It incorporates DHA and ARA to support brain and eye development, along with a robust selection of vitamins and minerals.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein | Special Blend for Sensitivity |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn Syrup Solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower, Soy, Coconut Oils | Safflower, Soy, Coconut Oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (No Probiotics) | Prebiotics (No Probiotics) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard Levels | Enhanced Levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Iron-rich, High Calcium | Iron-rich, High Calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.15 (price estimated) | $0.20 (price estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance offers a balance of nutrients that closely mimic natural breast milk, making it suitable for most infants. On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is designed with features that cater to babies with lactose sensitivity, while also providing nutrients to support overall growth and development.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for infants who can tolerate regular formula and benefit from a wide array of nutrients that mimic breast milk. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is a better choice for babies with lactose sensitivity or digestive issues, offering specialized nutrition that can alleviate symptoms and promote easier digestion.
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
- Enfamil Gentlease Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Soy
- Earth's Best Sensitivity
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
- Up & Up Gentle Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Although both formulas provide excellent nutrition, they come with certain limitations. The cost of Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive can be a concern for some families. The availability in certain markets might also be restricted, and parents sometimes debate over ingredients like corn syrup solids used for sensitive options such as Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive.
Conclusion
In summary, Similac Advance is a suitable all-around formula for babies able to digest standard formulas while providing balanced nutrition. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive targets babies with specific digestive needs or sensitivities, offering enhanced nutritional and digestive benefits. In choosing the right formula, parents should consider their baby’s unique needs and consult with a pediatrician to make the best-informed choice.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
Start here
Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.20 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 0.20 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.03 | 2.10 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 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.
| Similac Advance | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -39.00 | Calcium | 39.00 | 84.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -14.00 | Phosphorus | 14.00 | 56.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | 0.00 | Magnesium | 0.00 | 6.00 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 | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -6.00 | Sodium | 6.00 | 30.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 107.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 0.00 | Chloride | 0.00 | 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.
| Similac Advance | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin E | 0.00 | 1.50 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 0.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 0.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B12 | 0.00 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 0.00 | Niacin | 0.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | 0.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 0.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 0.00 | Biotin | 0.00 | 4.40 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 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 |