FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents who are either supplementing breastfeeding or relying entirely on it for their baby's nutrition. The ideal formula should mimic human milk as closely as possible and cater to the specific needs of your baby. Similac Advance Ready-To-Feed (RTF) and ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula are two popular choices among parents. Both are formulated to support the nutritional demands of infants, but they have distinct features and compositions. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these two infant formulas to assist parents in making an informed choice.
Nutritional Composition
When comparing Similac Advance RTF and ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, several nutritional factors are considered. Similac Advance RTF is known for its balanced whey and casein protein composition, providing vital nutrients like DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, which are essential for brain and eye development. ByHeart, on the other hand, emphasizes a whole-milk base with added lactose as its primary carbohydrate source. ByHeart's formula is also fortified with iron, vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and biotin, ensuring comprehensive nutritional support.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance RTF | ByHeart Whole Nutrition |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | 20:80 Whey-to-Casein Ratio | Whole Milk Proteins |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil, Soy Oil | Sunflower Oil, Palm Oil-Free |
| Prebiotics & Probiotics | FOS Prebiotics, No Probiotics | Probiotics (B. lactis), Prebiotics Included |
| Omega-3 Levels (DHA/ARA) | Available | Higher DHA Content |
| Iron Content | 1.8 mg per 100kcal | 1.9 mg per 100kcal |
| Calcium Content | 78 mg per 100kcal | 82 mg per 100kcal |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | $0.18 | $0.20 |
| Organic or non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Certified Organic |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary by retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance RTF is well-regarded for its formulation that includes lutein and vitamin E, which are critical for eye health. It's also non-GMO and caters to infants who thrive on soy oil-based fat sources. ByHeart stands out with its inclusion of a higher quantity of DHA, B. lactis probiotics, and sunflower oil-based fats, making it a preferable choice for parents seeking a whole-milk approach with prebiotic and probiotic benefits.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF is suitable for infants who benefit from a balanced whey-to-casein protein mix and those who may need a formula with added DHA for eye and brain development. It's a good option for parents looking for a ready-to-feed formula free from genetically modified organisms. In contrast, ByHeart is ideal for parents who prefer a whole-milk approach and want to enhance their child's gut health with probiotics. It is also beneficial for babies sensitive to palm oil.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Ready-to-Feed
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro RTF
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO
Alternatives to ByHeart Whole Nutrition
- Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
- Holle Organic Infant Formula
- HiPP Organic Infant Formula
- Similac Pure Bliss
- Plum Organics Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
For Similac Advance RTF, the primary concerns involve its oil composition, including safflower oil, which may not sit well with all babies. Additionally, its slightly higher price point can be a deterrent for budget-conscious parents. ByHeart, while being an attractive option due to its extensive nutritional content, has a higher cost and a rare availability in every retail location, which might limit accessibility for some consumers.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac Advance RTF and ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula have unique attributes catering to different needs. Similac Advance offers reliable DHA levels and non-GMO assurance, while ByHeart leads with its organic credentials and balanced composition devoid of palm oil. The choice depends heavily on the parent's nutritional priorities and the baby's specific needs and tolerances. It's always advisable for parents to consult with a pediatrician before deciding on an infant formula to ensure that it aligns with their baby’s nutritional needs and health circumstances.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
Buy ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.40 | 5.80 g | |
| 11.20 g | 0.90 | Carbohydrate | 10.30 g | |
| 2.07 g | 0.07 | Protein | 2.00 g | |
| 0 | Linoleic Acid | 700.00 | 700.00 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -4.00 | Phosphorus | 4.00 | 46.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.80 | Iron | -0.80 | 1.00 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.05 | Zinc | -0.05 | 0.70 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 23.00 | Copper | -23.00 | 67.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -12.00 | Sodium | 12.00 | 36.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 107.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 2.00 | Chloride | -2.00 | 63.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -10.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 50.00 | Niacin | -50.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 1.40 | Biotin | -1.40 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | -2.00 | Choline | 2.00 | 26.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 18.00 | Inositol | -18.00 | 6.00 mg |