FormulaSeek - Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents, as it greatly impacts a baby's nutrition and growth. Whether due to personal choice or necessity, formula feeding can support healthy development when breastfeeding is not an option. Two popular options that parents might come across are Similac 360 Total Care and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF. Both formulas cater to different needs and developmental stages, ensuring babies receive the nourishment essential for their growth.
Nutritional Composition
Similac 360 Total Care and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF provide tailored nutrition but differ significantly in their composition due to the distinct needs they address:
Similac 360 Total Care is designed to mimic human milk, offering a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It typically contains a protein blend closer to breast milk's whey-to-casein ratio, with lactose as the primary carbohydrate source, and uses a mix of oils like safflower and palm, to provide essential fatty acids.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF, on the other hand, caters to the nutritional needs of preterm infants transitioning home from the hospital. It is enriched with higher amounts of certain nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals to support catch-up growth. The NeoSure formula includes additional MCT oil for easy digestion, crucial for premature infants.
Key Differences
| Attribute | Similac 360 Total Care | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Balanced Whey-to-Casein | Higher Whey Ratio |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, Corn Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Safflower, Palm Oil | MCT Oil, Soy, Coconut Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Moderate | Higher DHA |
| Iron Content | Standard | Higher |
| Calcium Content | Standard | Higher |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | Approximately $0.15 | Approximately $0.20 |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care is known for its closeness to breast milk, containing a blend of prebiotics for gut health and a specific balance of macronutrients to support overall development. It is well-suited to infants without special medical needs, promoting balanced growth.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is targeted at preemies. The formula supports accelerated growth and brain development, with its higher nutrient density and easy-to-digest medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). It helps preterm infants catch up in weight and milestone attainment.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care is ideally suited for full-term infants who require a formula that mirrors the benefits of breast milk. It's great for infants who do not have specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is specifically designed for premature infants transitioning from hospital care to home. It aids in bridging the nutritional gap that often exists due to early birth.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
- Enfamil EnfaCare Infant Formula
- Nestle Premature Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Earth's Best Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Perrigo Preemie Nutritional Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac 360 Total Care could present a higher cost compared to some competitors and while it tries to closely mimic breast milk, it may still not suit all infants, especially those with specific allergies or dietary needs.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF tends to be pricier due to its specialized formulation. Accessibility can be an issue in some regions, and the formula may not be suitable for full-term infants due to its enriched nutrient profile.
Conclusion
Both Similac 360 Total Care and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF have their unique strengths that cater to different infant needs. Similac 360 Total Care is preferable for full-term infants maintaining balanced growth, while NeoSure is indispensable for premature babies needing enhanced nutrition. Always consult with a pediatrician to ensure the chosen formula aligns with your baby's specific needs for optimal health and development.
Carefully consider nutritional content, cost, and your baby's particular health requirements when selecting an infant formula. With the right choice, you can effectively support your child's journey through their formative early months.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.50 g | Fat | 0.10 | 5.60 g | |
| 10.10 g | Carbohydrate | 0.40 | 10.50 g | |
| 2.80 g | 0.73 | Protein | 2.07 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 62.00 mg | 20.00 | Phosphorus | -20.00 | 42.00 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 | 9.00 | Sodium | -9.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 142.00 mg | 37.00 | Potassium | -37.00 | 105.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |