FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Enfamil NeuroPro
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents who either cannot breastfeed or choose to supplement breast milk. Infant formulas vary in ingredients and nutritional focus, often targeting specific needs such as digestive health, brain development, or allergies. Two popular options that parents consider are Similac Alimentum and Enfamil NeuroPro.
Similac Alimentum is formulated for babies with food allergies and colic, often sensitive to regular formulas. Meanwhile, Enfamil NeuroPro focuses on providing nutrients for brain development, mimicking some of the key nutritional elements found in breast milk.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional composition of infant formulas is crucial as it affects a baby's growth and development. Both Similac Alimentum and Enfamil NeuroPro prioritize providing essential nutrients but differ mainly in their ingredient lists and targeted benefits.
Similac Alimentum uses hydrolyzed casein as its primary protein source, making it suitable for babies with allergies. Its carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin. The formula also contains palm olein oil as part of its fat blend, which is common in formulas for better calcium absorption.
In contrast, Enfamil NeuroPro contains a blend of whey protein-lipid droplets and uses lactose as the primary carbohydrate. The fat blend is palm-free, utilizing ingredients like safflower and coconut oils to improve digestion and nutrient absorption. The formula is enriched with Omega-3 (DHA) and Omega-6 (ARA) fatty acids to support brain development, addressing a core aspect of infant nutrition.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac Alimentum | Enfamil NeuroPro |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed Casein | Whey Protein-lipid blend |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein Oil | Safflower, Coconut Oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No | Yes, MFGM |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Moderate | High |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Iron-fortified |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 | $0.55 |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Note: Prices are estimated and may vary by location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum stands out for its hydrolyzed protein formula that helps reduce allergic reactions in sensitive babies. This makes it suitable for infants with cow's milk allergy or lactose sensitivity. The absence of palm olein in Enfamil NeuroPro often makes it more suitable for promoting softer stool, akin to those seen in breastfed infants. Furthermore, the inclusion of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) in NeuroPro is touted for supporting cognitive development.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is particularly beneficial for infants suffering from food allergies, colic, or lactose intolerance. Its hypoallergenic formula can calm fussy, gassy babies. On the other hand, Enfamil NeuroPro is aimed at supporting infants’ brain development. It is ideal for parents who wish to provide their babies with formulas enriched to simulate the benefits of breast milk more closely.
Alternatives
Similac Alimentum Alternatives
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG by Enfamil
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Hydrolyzed Formulas by HiPP
Enfamil NeuroPro Alternatives
- Similac Pro-Advance with 2’- FL HMO
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Parents Choice Advantage Infant Formula
- HiPP Combiotic
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum: The hydrolyzed formula may have an unpalatable taste for some infants, and its high price can be a deterrent. Availability may also pose an issue, often requiring ordering from specific retailers.
Enfamil NeuroPro: Despite its brain-supportive claims, some parents may find the allergen and sourcing information lacking. Additionally, it can be slightly more costly than standard options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Similac Alimentum and Enfamil NeuroPro offer targeted nutritional benefits designed to address specific needs in infant nutrition. Similac Alimentum is especially beneficial for babies with allergies or colic due to its hypoallergenic composition. In contrast, Enfamil NeuroPro is better suited for parents who wish to bolster their baby’s brain development with DHA and ARA enriched formulas. Nevertheless, it is crucial for parents to discuss their baby’s specific nutritional needs with a pediatrician before selecting a formula that best fits their infant’s requirements.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 1.10 | 11.30 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.65 | Protein | 2.10 g | |
| 800.00 mg | 20.00 | Linoleic Acid | 780.00 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 Alimentum | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 32.00 | Phosphorus | -32.00 | 43.00 mg |
| 7.50 mg | -0.50 | Magnesium | 0.50 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.25 | Zinc | 0.25 | 1.00 mg |
| 8.00 mcg | -7.00 | Manganese | 7.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 75.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 44.00 mg | 17.00 | Sodium | -17.00 | 27.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 10.00 | Potassium | -10.00 | 108.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 17.00 | Chloride | -17.00 | 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 Alimentum | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60.00 IU | Vitamin D | |||
| 3.00 IU | 1.00 | Vitamin E | -1.00 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -50.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 50.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.45 mcg | 0.15 | Vitamin B12 | -0.15 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1350.00 mcg | 350.00 | Niacin | -350.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 750.00 mcg | 250.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -250.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.50 mcg | 1.50 | Biotin | -1.50 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -61.00 | Vitamin C | 61.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 12.00 mg | -12.00 | Choline | 12.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 5.00 mg | -19.00 | Inositol | 19.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |