FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for the healthy growth and development of your baby. With so many options available, making the best choice can be daunting, especially when considering specific dietary needs or sensitivities. This guide will explore two prominent infant formulas: Similac Alimentum RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive, both designed to cater to different needs.
Nutritional Composition
Infant formulas are designed to mimic breast milk's nutritional profile as closely as possible. Similac Alimentum RTF is crafted for babies with cow’s milk allergy or other sensitivities, featuring extensively hydrolyzed protein for better digestion. Its protein source is primarily casein, broken down for easier digestion.
In contrast, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive, formulated for babies with lactose sensitivity, features a protein blend closer to that found in breast milk, with a whey-to-casein ratio optimized for sensitive tummies. It includes partially hydrolyzed whey protein and lactose-reduced carbohydrate sources to ease digestion.
Key Differences
| Attribute | Similac Alimentum RTF | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Casein hydrolysate | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Lactose-reduced |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil | Palm Olein Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No | Yes, Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard Levels | Enhanced Levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Balanced | Optimized for Sensitive Stomachs |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.20 | $0.18 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary by location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF stands out with its hypoallergenic properties due to its extensively hydrolyzed protein, which is easier for babies with allergies or digestive issues to tolerate. This makes it an ideal choice for babies with allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive, on the other hand, boasts added prebiotics to enhance gut health and is designed to provide complete nutrition with a gentle touch. This formula supports developing immune systems with some enhancement in Omega-3 levels for brain and eye development, making it beneficial for babies with mild lactose sensitivities.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is particularly suitable for babies with cow's milk allergy, protein sensitivity, or severe digestive discomfort. Its hypoallergenic composition addresses allergies and provides relief from severe colic and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive targets babies with milder lactose sensitivities, needing a formula that's easier to digest than standard milk-based formulas. The inclusion of prebiotics also supports a healthy immune system, making it a versatile choice for many infants.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Good Start Soy
- Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity
- Baby's Only Organic SOY Formula
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF may be on the pricier side, making it a less feasible option for families on a tight budget. Additionally, it doesn't include prebiotics or probiotics, which some parents seek for additional gut support.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive might not be suitable for babies needing a completely lactose-free diet, considering its reduced lactose content rather than none. The presence of palm olein oil, though safe, is sometimes debated concerning its impact on fat absorption and bone mineralization in infants.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive offer unique benefits tailored to specific infant needs. Similac Alimentum RTF is best suited for babies with severe protein sensitivity and allergy concerns. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive provides a comprehensive nutritional profile for those with mild lactose sensitivity.
Ultimately, selecting the right formula should be personalized to your baby’s health needs and always made in consultation with a pediatrician. This ensures peace of mind, knowing your baby is receiving the most suitable nourishment for their early development stages.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.14 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.70 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.65 | Protein | 2.10 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 900.00 | Linoleic Acid | 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 21.00 | Calcium | -21.00 | 84.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 19.00 | Phosphorus | -19.00 | 56.00 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 | 14.00 | Sodium | -14.00 | 30.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 11.00 | Potassium | -11.00 | 107.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 45.00 IU | -15.00 | Vitamin D | 15.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 3.00 IU | 1.50 | Vitamin E | -1.50 | 1.50 IU |
| 15.00 mcg | 7.00 | Vitamin K | -7.00 | 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 |