FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for the health and development of your baby. With various options on the market, understanding the differences between formulas can help you make an informed decision. Among notable options, Similac Advance and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge stand out, each catering to specific nutritional needs of infants. Similac Advance is designed to provide complete nutrition for babies from birth, while Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is formulated for premature infants transitioning from hospital to home.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Advance and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge differ in their nutritional make-up, tailored to meet the specific needs of full-term and post-discharge preterm infants, respectively. Similac Advance typically contains a balanced mix of whey and casein protein, mimicking the natural composition of breast milk. The primary carbohydrate source is lactose, providing a slow-releasing energy source. It uses a blend of palm olein, soy, and high oleic safflower oils for fats, enriched with DHA and ARA for brain and eye development. Vitamins and minerals in Similac Advance are geared towards supporting overall growth and immune function.
In contrast, Similac NeoSure Post Discharge contains a higher protein content with an increased whey-to-casein ratio, specifically structured to support the rapid growth of premature infants. The formula also uses lactose as its primary carbohydrate, supplemented with maltodextrin for additional energy. The fat sources in NeoSure are similarly enriched but in proportions that support nutrient absorption in preterm infants. Enhanced levels of vital vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and iron, support vigorous catch-up growth.
Key Differences
| Similac Advance | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge | |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Balanced Whey/Casein | Higher Whey Ratio |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein, Soy, Safflower | Palm Olein, Soy, Safflower |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | No added prebiotics | No added prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Included | Higher Levels Included |
| Iron/Calcium Content | Standard | Enhanced |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | $0.20 (estimate) | $0.24 (estimate) |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance supports a baby's natural immune system, with a formulation inspired by breast milk to promote eye and brain development. It is gentle on sensitive tummies and provides a balanced source of nutrients.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge offers targeted nutrition for premature babies, focusing on rapid catch-up growth with higher protein and calorie content. This can result in enhanced weight, length, and head circumference growth.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for typically developing newborns who may benefit from an all-encompassing, nutritionally balanced formula without special dietary requirements. It’s a great choice for parents looking for a trusted, basic formula.
Babies born prematurely who need additional support after leaving the hospital would benefit from Similac NeoSure Post Discharge. It provides the extra nutrients required for premature infants to grow effectively and healthily.
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
- Enfamil EnfaCare
- Gerber Good Start Premature 24
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- PreNAN
Potential Drawbacks
For Similac Advance, some parents might find the inclusion of palm olein oil controversial due to potential negative impacts on calcium absorption. Additionally, the cost may be higher compared to some generic brands.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge, while beneficial for premature babies, can be more expensive than standard formulas. Its enhanced nutrient profile is not necessary for full-term infants, potentially causing overnutrition if used improperly.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge present valuable options within the infant formula market, each addressing distinct needs. Similac Advance provides a balanced nutritional profile for newborns, while NeoSure supports the specialized needs of preterm infants. Parents should weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks of each formula in consultation with their pediatrician to determine which option best suits their baby's requirements.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.50 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.60 | Carbohydrate | 10.10 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.73 | 2.80 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 250.00 | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 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 NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -60.00 | Calcium | 60.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -20.00 | Phosphorus | 20.00 | 62.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -3.00 | Magnesium | 3.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.45 | Zinc | 0.45 | 1.20 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -5.00 | Manganese | 5.00 | 10.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -30.00 | Copper | 30.00 | 120.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.30 | Selenium | 0.30 | 2.30 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -9.00 | Sodium | 9.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -37.00 | Potassium | 37.00 | 142.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -10.00 | Chloride | 10.00 | 75.00 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 NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -2.10 | Vitamin E | 2.10 | 3.60 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -3.00 | Vitamin K | 3.00 | 11.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | -75.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 75.00 | 175.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -40.00 | Vitamin B6 | 40.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.15 | Vitamin B12 | 0.15 | 0.40 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -900.00 | Niacin | 900.00 | 1950.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -10.00 | Folic Acid | 10.00 | 25.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -350.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 350.00 | 800.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -4.60 | Biotin | 4.60 | 9.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -6.00 | Vitamin C | 6.00 | 15.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 8.00 | Choline | -8.00 | 16.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | -11.00 | Inositol | 11.00 | 35.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | -50.00 | Vitamin A | 50.00 | 350.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |