FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac ProTotal Comfort
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who rely on formula as a nutritional source for their babies. The right formula ensures adequate growth and development, providing essential nutrients for the infant’s early life stages. Among the plethora of options available, Similac Advance and Similac ProTotal Comfort are two popular choices. Similac Advance is known for its closest resemblance to breast milk, while Similac ProTotal Comfort is recognized for its ease on the digestive system, particularly for babies with sensitive tummies.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional composition of infant formulas can aid parents in making an informed choice. Both Similac Advance and Similac ProTotal Comfort are designed to provide infants with the nutrients they need, but they differ in particular ingredients:
Similac Advance: This formula features a blend of whey and casein proteins, with lactose as the primary carbohydrate source, and contains vegetable oils such as safflower and palm for fats. Enriched with necessary vitamins and minerals, it includes important nutrients like DHA and ARA for brain and eye development.
Similac ProTotal Comfort: Designed for sensitive stomachs, this formula utilizes partially hydrolyzed whey protein, which is easier to digest. It uses maltodextrin for carbohydrates and excludes palm oil. Like Similac Advance, it also contains DHA, ARA, and essential vitamins and minerals but emphasizes easier digestion.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance | Similac ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey/Casein | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Vegetable Oils including Palm | Vegetable Oils excluding Palm |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics | Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard | Standard |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Standard |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.21 | $0.40 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance: This formula’s unique selling point is its resemblance to breast milk. It supports brain and eye development with added nutrients like DHA and lutein, aiming to boost a child’s growth in their early years.
Similac ProTotal Comfort: The formula is specially designed for babies with sensitive stomachs, using partially hydrolyzed protein for better digestion, which can help reduce colic and gas.
Target Audience
Similac Advance may be ideal for infants with no specific dietary issues, serving as a standard nutritional formula. Alternatively, Similac ProTotal Comfort is tailored for infants with sensitive digestive systems, making it a preferable choice for babies experiencing discomfort with standard formulas.
Alternatives
Similac Advance Alternatives
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
Similac ProTotal Comfort Alternatives
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula Complete Nutrition
- Earth’s Best Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance: Some common concerns revolve around its inclusion of palm oil, which can affect calcium absorption. There are also considerations on cost and availability, especially in areas experiencing retail shortages.
Similac ProTotal Comfort: While effective for sensitive stomachs, it tends to be more expensive, which might not be ideal for families on a budget. Its prevalence in the market might also be limited compared to traditional formulas.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Similac Advance and Similac ProTotal Comfort offer unique benefits tailored to different infant needs. For families looking for a formula close to breast milk, Similac Advance is an outstanding choice. However, for babies dealing with sensitive tummies, Similac ProTotal Comfort’s specialized formulation is invaluable. Always consult with a pediatrician to determine the best formula based on your baby’s specific needs and health conditions. The prices mentioned are estimates, and it’s essential to confirm current pricing in your area.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.20 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 10.70 g | ||
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.25 | 2.32 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 ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -60.00 | Calcium | 60.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -33.00 | Phosphorus | 33.00 | 75.00 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 | -20.00 | Sodium | 20.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -13.00 | Potassium | 13.00 | 118.00 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 ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |