FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is paramount for providing the necessary nutrition for a baby's growth and development. With numerous options available in the market, parents often face the challenge of determining which formula best meets their baby’s specific needs. Two popular options are Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF. Here we will explore these formulas in detail to help you make an informed choice.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF boast a range of nutrients to support infant growth. Similac Advance is known for its blend of whey and casein proteins and includes a variety of carbohydrates, primarily lactose. It utilizes oils such as safflower oil and palm oil for fat content, contributing to energy and growth. Vitamins and minerals, such as iron and calcium, are well-represented to support overall health.
On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is formulated especially for infants with sensitivity issues. It typically features a hydrolyzed protein or a modified protein source and uses gentler carbohydrate options such as maltodextrin to ease digestion. The fat sources and mineral compositions closely align with those of Similac Advance, ensuring the infant receives all essential nutrients.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac Advance | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein (60:40 ratio) | Hydrolyzed or Modified Protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil, Palm Oil | Safflower Oil, Sunflower Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (2'FL HMO), No Probiotics | Prebiotics (2'FL HMO), No Probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Yes | Yes, level might vary |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Iron-fortified, High in Calcium | Iron-fortified, High in Calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.17/oz | $0.20/oz |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on location and time of purchase.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance is designed with OptiGRO, a combination of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, crucial for brain and eye development. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is tailored for infants with sensitive digestive systems, offering a less allergenic protein base and modified carbohydrate source to minimize fussiness and gas.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is suitable for most infants as it closely resembles breast milk. It is ideal for babies without specific dietary needs. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is aimed at infants with lactose intolerance or sensitivity issues, making it an excellent choice for those experiencing digestive discomfort with regular formulas.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Good Start Soy Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Infant Formula
- EleCare Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
- Similac Alimentum
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance, while affordable, may not be suitable for infants with sensitivity to lactose or its ingredients. On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF, although beneficial for sensitive stomachs, might be on the higher end of the price spectrum and could be less readily available.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF provide substantial nutrition for infants. Similac Advance is ideal for standard dietary requirements, while Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF caters to infants with more delicate digestive systems. Parents should consult with a pediatrician to select the best formula based on their baby's unique needs and any possible medical conditions.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |