FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Similac Advance
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents who wish to ensure their baby receives optimal nutrition to support their growth and development. While breastfeeding is the ideal source of nutrition, it isn't always possible for all families, making infant formula a necessary alternative. Two popular options available are Similac Alimentum and Similac Advance. Each has unique features tailored to different dietary needs, making it imperative to understand their nutritional benefits and differences.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum and Similac Advance provide essential nutrients but differ in their formulations to meet specific needs. Similac Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula designed for babies with food allergies and sensitivities. It features extensively hydrolyzed protein, which makes it easier to digest. On the other hand, Similac Advance focuses on mimicking the nutritional profile of human milk and contains non-hydrolyzed milk proteins that may better support a healthy infant without digestive issues.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | Non-hydrolyzed cow’s milk protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil | Palm olein oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Prebiotics only |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | High iron content | Balanced calcium and iron |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | ~$0.40 | ~$0.32 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is noted for its hypoallergenic properties due to the extensively hydrolyzed casein, which reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions in babies with sensitive stomachs or allergies. Similac Advance is enhanced with a blend of prebiotics and Omega-3 fatty acids crucial for brain and eye development. Its nutrient composition is crafted to resemble breast milk, making it a viable choice for healthy babies.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is best suited for infants with severe allergies or digestive concerns, such as a protein intolerance. Similac Advance, however, is recommended for most healthy infants requiring formula supplementation or full feeding. It is an ideal option for parents seeking a formula that closely resembles breast milk.
Alternatives
Similac Alimentum Alternatives
- Nutramigen by Enfamil
- EleCare for Infants
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Similac Pro-Total Comfort
- PurAmino Hypoallergenic
Similac Advance Alternatives
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth’s Best Organic Dairy
- Happy Baby Organic
- Parent's Choice Infant
Potential Drawbacks
Despite their benefits, both formulas come with potential drawbacks. Similac Alimentum tends to be more expensive and may not be readily available in all stores. Additionally, some parents concern over its use of corn maltodextrin as a carbohydrate source. Similac Advance, while more affordable, contains palm olein oil, which some studies suggest may hinder calcium absorption. Consultation with a pediatrician is highly advised when selecting a formula.
Conclusion
In summary, selecting the right infant formula is a personalized decision based on an infant’s nutritional requirements and any potential allergies. Similac Alimentum is well-suited for babies with high allergy risk requiring highly digestible protein, whereas Similac Advance offers a comprehensive nutritional mimicry of breast milk, ideal for healthy infants. Regardless of the choice, parents should always consult with a pediatric healthcare provider to make informed decisions ensuring their baby's health and development are optimized.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | Fat | 0.06 | 5.60 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.50 | 10.70 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.68 | Protein | 2.07 g | |
| 800.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 200.00 | 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 Alimentum | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 60.00 | Calcium | -60.00 | 45.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 33.00 | Phosphorus | -33.00 | 42.00 mg |
| 7.50 mg | 1.50 | Magnesium | -1.50 | 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 |
| 8.00 mcg | 3.00 | Manganese | -3.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | -15.00 | Copper | 15.00 | 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 |
| 44.00 mg | 20.00 | Sodium | -20.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 13.00 | Potassium | -13.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 15.00 | Chloride | -15.00 | 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 Alimentum | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 3.00 IU | 1.50 | Vitamin E | -1.50 | 1.50 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -40.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 40.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 60.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.45 mcg | 0.20 | Vitamin B12 | -0.20 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1350.00 mcg | 300.00 | Niacin | -300.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 750.00 mcg | 300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -300.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 4.50 mcg | 0.10 | Biotin | -0.10 | 4.40 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 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 |