FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for ensuring that your baby receives the optimal nutrients necessary for growth and development. While breastfeeding is recommended as the best source of nutrition, infant formula provides an essential alternative for mothers who are unable to breastfeed or choose not to. Two popular options are Similac Advance Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge. Both formulas are designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants, but cater to different requirements and developmental stages.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Advance RTF and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge differ significantly in their nutritional composition and intended purpose. Similac Advance is tailored for healthy, full-term infants, offering a balanced mix of nutrition closely resembling that of breast milk. On the other hand, Similac NeoSure is specially formulated for premature or low birth weight infants, providing extra calories, protein, and nutrients to support accelerated growth after hospital discharge.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance RTF | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-dominant | Higher whey percentage with added protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, higher calorie concentration |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, safflower oil, soy oil, coconut oil | Safflower oil, soy oil, medium-chain triglycerides |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (FOS) | No prebiotics or probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Included | Higher DHA/ARA levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Higher levels to support rapid growth |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.20 - $0.25 | $0.25 - $0.30 |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance RTF is enriched with prebiotics (FOS) to mimic the benefits of human milk and support digestive health, while providing essential nutrients for growth, brain, and eye development, including Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and ARA). Conversely, Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is tailored for babies born prematurely or with low birth weights, featuring higher calorie content, additional protein for muscle growth, and more iron and calcium to support the rapid growth requirements of these infants.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF is suitable for healthy, full-term infants who are transitioning off breast milk or whose mothers are choosing formula exclusively. Its well-rounded nutritional profile makes it ideal for general use. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge specifically serves premature infants or those with low birth weight. Its formulation supports accelerated growth and the development of under-matured organs after hospital discharge.
Similac Advance RTF Alternatives
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Advantage Infant Formula
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Alternatives
- Enfamil Enfacare
- Gerber Good Start Premature Formula
- Neocate Syneo Infant
- Similac for Spit-Up
- Enfamil A.R. Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance RTF: The presence of palm olein oil can be controversial as some studies suggest it affects the absorption of calcium and fat. Additionally, the cost may be higher compared to powdered forms. It's worth noting that while it is non-GMO, it is not organic.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge: As a specialized formula, it is generally more expensive than regular formulas. The absence of prebiotics may not suit all babies, and it's important for caregivers to ensure that it's only used under pediatric guidance, particularly as it is designed for a niche group of infants.
Conclusion
Similac Advance RTF is an excellent option for healthy, full-term babies, offering a balanced nutritional profile with added prebiotics for digestive health. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is aimed at meeting the unique needs of premature infants, clearly demonstrating its suitability through enhanced calorie, protein, iron, and calcium content. Parents are strongly encouraged to consult with a pediatrician to ensure the chosen formula aligns with their baby's specific nutritional requirements and health considerations.
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary based on location and retailer.
Sources*
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Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.10 | 5.50 g | |
| 11.20 g | 1.10 | Carbohydrate | 10.10 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.73 | 2.80 g | |
| 0 | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 | 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -27.00 | Calcium | 27.00 | 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | -50.00 | Vitamin A | 50.00 | 350.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 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 |