FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who are unable to breastfeed or require supplementation for their babies. Formula is often selected based on the specific nutritional needs of infants, their growth stage, or any medical conditions they may have. Among the various options available, Similac offers different formulations designed to support the health and development of babies. Two popular choices are Similac Advance and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Ready-to-Feed (RTF), each catering to distinct needs. In this post, we will explore these formulas in detail to help parents make informed decisions.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional components of infant formulas is essential, as they serve as a primary source of nourishment for babies. Similac Advance is designed to mimic breast milk as closely as possible and provides balanced nutrition with its blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF, on the other hand, is tailored for premature or low-birth-weight infants who need additional nutritional support for catch-up growth.
The protein in Similac Advance is a blend of whey and casein, while NeoSure generally consists of proteins optimized for easier digestion and absorption. Carbohydrates in these formulas include lactose, which is naturally found in breast milk. Both formulas incorporate fats from a combination of sources such as high-oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil, but the proportions may differ. Essential vitamins and minerals are also present to ensure comprehensive nutrition.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac Advance | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey: Casein 48:52 | Modified Whey Protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, Corn Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | High-oleic safflower oil, soy oil, coconut oil | Similar, but with potential changes in proportion for increased calories |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics: Galactooligosaccharides | Not typically included |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Higher concentration |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels | Higher levels for catch-up growth |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approximately $0.30* | Approximately $0.50* |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Prices are estimated and can vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance is crafted to provide support for a baby’s first year of life with nutrients that promote brain and eye development, plus it includes antioxidants and prebiotics to support digestive health. Similac NeoSure, on the other hand, is fortified with higher amounts of certain nutrients to aid the growth of preterm babies, providing extra protein, vitamins, and minerals required for catch-up growth.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for full-term infants who need a standard formula. It’s suitable for those who don’t have additional nutritional requirements beyond what breast milk can provide. In contrast, Similac NeoSure is specifically formulated for premature or low-birth-weight babies needing extra nutritional support once they are ready to leave the hospital.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
- Enfamil EnfaCare
- Gerber Good Start Extensive HA
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Similac Pro-Sensitive
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
Potential Drawbacks
One potential drawback of Similac Advance is its cost compared to other formulas, while Similac NeoSure might not be readily available at all retail locations and can be more expensive. Additionally, some parents might prefer alternatives without palm olein oil due to potential impacts on calcium absorption.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF have their unique strengths and are tailored for different needs. Similac Advance is well-suited for typical infant nutritional needs, whereas NeoSure targets the special requirements of premature or low-birth-weight infants. Parents should consider their baby's specific needs and consult with a pediatrician when selecting a formula to ensure the best possible nutritional foundation.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |