FormulaSeek - Similac NeoSure Post Discharge vs Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for ensuring the optimal growth and development of babies who are not breastfed. Each formula is designed with specific nutritional needs in mind, catering to the diverse requirements of infants. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF are two such formulas that provide specialized nutrition. Similac NeoSure is typically used for premature babies who need extra nutrients post-discharge, whereas Similac ProTotal Comfort is made for easy digestion, ideal for babies with discomfort due to regular feeds.
Nutritional Composition
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is designed to support the growth of premature infants with enhanced levels of vitamins, minerals, and relatively higher caloric content. It typically contains a whey-to-casein ratio favoring whey for better digestion, lactose as the primary carbohydrate source, and oils like safflower and soy for essential fats. Conversely, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF (Ready-to-Feed) is for infants with delicate tummies, featuring partially hydrolyzed whey protein and a carbohydrate blend that includes maltodextrin for easy digestion. The fat profile in ProTotal Comfort often includes palm olein and high-oleic safflower oil.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein ratio favoring whey | Partially hydrolyzed whey protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, Soy oil | Palm olein, High-oleic safflower oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None noted | Prebiotics (polydextrose) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Enhanced DHA/ARA | Standard DHA levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Higher iron and calcium content | Standard iron and calcium levels |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | Approx. $0.25/oz* | Approx. $0.35/oz* |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Prices are estimates and can vary based on location and vendor.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is enriched with additional calories and nutrients, promoting growth in premature infants post-hospitalization. It helps in catching up with growth, providing fortified nutrition for body and brain development. Meanwhile, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF offers easy-to-digest ingredients for babies experiencing fussiness and gas, thanks to its partially hydrolyzed proteins and prebiotic fibers to support a healthy gut.
Target Audience
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is primarily aimed at premature babies who need enhanced nutrition after leaving the hospital. On the other hand, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF suits infants with sensitivity to regular formulas, especially those relating to fussiness and gas due to standard milk formulas.
Alternatives to Similac NeoSure Post Discharge
- Enfamil EnfaCare
- Gerber Good Start Premature 24
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Puranature Organic Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Enfamil ProSobee
- Parent's Choice Tender Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge might be more expensive due to its specialized formulation, and some parents might find it challenging to find in certain locations. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, being a ready-to-feed formula, also carries a higher price point and is often criticized for the inclusion of palm olein oil, which some studies suggest could affect bone mineralization. Both formulas, while non-GMO, do not offer an organic certification, which might deter parents seeking organic options.
Conclusion
In summary, both formulas cater to distinct needs. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge is best for premature babies needing extra calories and fortified nutrition post-hospitalization, while Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF is designed for infants suffering from feeding-related discomfort. Parents are encouraged to critically consider their baby's unique needs and consult with their pediatrician to decide on the most appropriate formula choice.
Sources*
Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac NeoSure Post Discharge | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.50 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.10 g | Carbohydrate | 0.60 | 10.70 g | |
| 2.80 g | 0.48 | Protein | 2.32 g | |
| 750.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 250.00 | 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 NeoSure Post Discharge | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 62.00 mg | -13.00 | Phosphorus | 13.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 9.00 mg | 3.00 | Magnesium | -3.00 | 6.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 1.20 mg | 0.45 | Zinc | -0.45 | 0.75 mg |
| 10.00 mcg | 5.00 | Manganese | -5.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 120.00 mcg | 30.00 | Copper | -30.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.30 mcg | 0.30 | Selenium | -0.30 | 2.00 mcg |
| 33.00 mg | -11.00 | Sodium | 11.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 142.00 mg | 24.00 | Potassium | -24.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 10.00 | Chloride | -10.00 | 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 NeoSure Post Discharge | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.60 IU | 2.10 | Vitamin E | -2.10 | 1.50 IU |
| 11.00 mcg | 3.00 | Vitamin K | -3.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 175.00 mcg | 75.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -75.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 40.00 | Vitamin B6 | -40.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.40 mcg | 0.15 | Vitamin B12 | -0.15 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1950.00 mcg | 900.00 | Niacin | -900.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 25.00 mcg | 10.00 | Folic Acid | -10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 800.00 mcg | 350.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -350.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mcg | 4.60 | Biotin | -4.60 | 4.40 mcg |
| 15.00 mg | 6.00 | Vitamin C | -6.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 16.00 mg | -8.00 | Choline | 8.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 35.00 mg | 11.00 | Inositol | -11.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 350.00 IU | 50.00 | Vitamin A | -50.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 70.00 IU | 10.00 | Vitamin D | -10.00 | 60.00 IU |