FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for ensuring your baby's health and development. With numerous options available, parents often feel overwhelmed when selecting a suitable formula for their little ones, particularly when considering specific dietary needs and sensitivities. Among the choices are Similac Alimentum and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, both of which cater to infants with specific nutritional requirements. This blog post explores these two formulas, highlighting their nutritional composition, key differences, distinct features, and potential alternatives to help parents make informed decisions.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum is designed specifically for infants with food allergies and digestive concerns. It contains extensively hydrolyzed protein, which breaks down milk proteins into smaller, more digestible fragments. This formula primarily sources its carbohydrates from corn maltodextrin and features a fat blend that includes medium-chain triglycerides for easier absorption.
Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, on the other hand, is intended for infants who experience discomfort from feeding. It uses partially hydrolyzed whey protein, offering a gentler option than traditional formulas. The primary carbohydrate is corn maltodextrin, while the fat blend excludes palm olein oil, making it easier on the digestive system.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | Partially hydrolyzed whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Corn maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | High oleic safflower oil, medium-chain triglycerides | Safflower oil, soy oil |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | None | Contains prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Yes | Yes |
| Iron Content | 1.8 mg per 100 Calories | 1.8 mg per 100 Calories |
| Calcium Content | 78 mg per 100 Calories | 78 mg per 100 Calories |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 (estimated) | $0.45 (estimated) |
| Organic/Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is formulated with extensively hydrolyzed protein, helping minimize allergic reactions and making it easier to digest for sensitive stomachs. It's free from common allergens such as lactose and soy, catering to infants with diverse dietary needs. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF offers partial hydrolysis of its protein source, facilitating easier digestion and reducing discomfort. The formula's elimination of palm olein oil can contribute to more frequent stools and better calcium absorption.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is ideal for babies who exhibit symptoms of food allergies or intolerances, such as colic due to protein sensitivity. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF can be beneficial for infants experiencing mild feeding discomfort or fussiness, as it is gentler on the digestive system.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Enfamil ProSobee
- Earth's Best Organic Soy Infant Formula
- Similac Sensitive
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Parent's Choice Gentle
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Potential concerns associated with Similac Alimentum include its higher price point, which might not be feasible for all budgets. Likewise, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF—though slightly more affordable—may still be cost-prohibitive for some families. Both formulas being ready-to-feed add convenience at a surcharge compared to powder versions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Similac Alimentum and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF serve distinct purposes for addressing various infant dietary needs. Similac Alimentum is particularly suitable for infants with severe allergies or intolerance, while Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF caters to those experiencing mild digestive discomfort. Parents are encouraged to discuss individual needs with their pediatricians, ensuring that they choose the best formula option to support their baby's growth and well-being.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.14 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.50 | 10.70 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.43 | Protein | 2.32 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 ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 75.00 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 | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 118.00 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 ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |