FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who cannot breastfeed or choose to supplement. It's essential to opt for a formula that meets the nutritional needs and agrees with the digestive systems and health conditions of their baby. This post will compare two popular hypoallergenic infant formulas: Similac Alimentum and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic. These formulas are designed for infants who suffer from allergies or sensitivities and aim to relieve symptoms and promote healthy growth.
Nutritional Composition
When choosing an infant formula, understanding the nutritional makeup is vital. Both Similac Alimentum and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic offer distinct nutritional benefits:
- Similac Alimentum: A casein hydrolysate formula that uses extensively hydrolyzed protein to aid digestion. It includes medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) as part of its fat profile, promoting easier digestion. Its carbohydrate source is based on corn syrup solids, while it is rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium and iron.
- Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic: Uses amino acids as its protein source to cater to infants with severe allergies. It contains high levels of DHA and ARA, omega fatty acids vital for brain development. The carbohydrate source is primarily corn syrup solids. The formula does not include palm oil, focusing instead on a mix of other oils conducive to nutrient absorption.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac Alimentum | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Casein Hydrolysate | Amino Acids |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Syrup Solids | Corn Syrup Solids |
| Fat Source | MCTs, not including palm oil | Contains no palm oil, blend of other oils |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | None | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Moderate levels | High levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | High | High |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.48 | $1.10 |
| Organic/Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is specifically formulated to ease colic symptoms due to protein sensitivity. The hydrolyzed proteins and MCTs promote easy digestion, making it a suitable choice for lactose-sensitive infants. Conversely, Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic is designed for infants with severe allergies, providing nutrition through amino acids, reducing allergic reactions significantly while supporting brain and eye development with higher DHA and ARA levels.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is suitable for infants who struggle with protein digestion or exhibit signs of colic due to milk protein sensitivity. Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic fits babies with severe allergies requiring a diet free from intact proteins, which can be common in enzyme insufficiency or other severe allergic conditions.
Alternatives for Similac Alimentum
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Sensitivity
- Good Start SoothePro
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic
Alternatives for Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- EleCare Infant Formula
- Nutricia PreGel
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Novalac Allergy
Potential Drawbacks
One concern for Similac Alimentum is the reliance on corn syrup solids as a carbohydrate source, which some consumers prefer avoiding. It might also not be adequate for those with severe protein allergies. The primary drawbacks for Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic include its higher cost and potential lack of availability in some areas. Additionally, its amino acid-based composition might not be as palatable to some infants.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic offer specific benefits geared towards infants with unique dietary requirements. While Similac Alimentum is suitable for those with protein sensitivities, Enfamil PurAmino provides a solution for infants with severe allergic conditions. Regardless of the choice, consulting with a pediatrician is essential to ensure the selected formula meets your baby's nutritional needs.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
Buy Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.40 | 10.60 g | |
| 2.75 g | Protein | 0.05 | 2.80 g | |
| 800.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 60.00 | 860.00 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | -11.00 | Calcium | 11.00 | 116.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 11.00 | Phosphorus | -11.00 | 64.00 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 | -17.00 | Manganese | 17.00 | 25.00 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 | -3.00 | Sodium | 3.00 | 47.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 8.00 | Potassium | -8.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | -6.00 | Chloride | 6.00 | 86.00 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 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 | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 90.00 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 | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 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 |