FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula can be a crucial decision for new parents, particularly when breastfeeding may not be feasible or desired. The right formula ensures that your baby receives the necessary nutrients to support healthy growth and development. Two popular choices among parents are Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease. Both of these formulas are designed for babies who may have sensitive stomachs and have distinct features that make them stand out in the infant formula market.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding what goes into each formula is essential in choosing the right one for your baby. Both Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease offer comprehensive nutritional profiles, but they formulate these components differently.
Similac ProTotal Comfort uses a protein that is partially hydrolyzed, which is easier for some babies to digest. The primary carbohydrate source is maltodextrin, and it uses a blend of high oleic safflower oil, soy, and coconut oils for its fat content. It also includes a unique blend of prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals, including iron and calcium, to meet infant dietary requirements.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease also contains partially hydrolyzed proteins made from partially broken down whey to ease digestion. Its carbohydrate component is mainly lactose with some corn syrup solids. Moreover, its fat composition includes a mix of palm olein oil, soy, coconut, and high oleic sunflower oils. Enfamil uses a dual prebiotic blend to support digestive health and includes essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac ProTotal Comfort | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Partially hydrolyzed whey protein | Partially hydrolyzed whey protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Maltodextrin | Lactose, corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower, soy, coconut oils | Palm olein, soy, coconut, sunflower oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (2’-FL HMO) | Dual prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Included | Included |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.40 per ounce | Approx. $0.35 per ounce |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac ProTotal Comfort: This formula is specially designed for babies with lactose sensitivity due to its use of 100% lactose-free carbohydrate sources. The addition of 2’FL HMO prebiotics supports gut health and immune function.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease: Known for its brain-building DHA, this formula supports cognitive development. It also has a reputation for reducing fussiness, gas, and crying in as little as 24 hours due to its partially hydrolyzed proteins and gentle formula.
Target Audience
Similac ProTotal Comfort is often recommended for babies with lactose sensitivity or who exhibit digestive discomfort related to lactose. Conversely, Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease is targeted toward infants who experience heightened fussiness or gas and babies whose families seek enhanced nutrient support for brain development.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort:
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity
- Baby’s Only Organic Gentle Dairy
- Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula
- Up & Up Complete Comfort
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
Alternatives to Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease:
- Similac Pro-Sensitive
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Earth's Best Organic Gentle
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Parent’s Choice Advantage HMO
- Store-brand (Kroger, CVS) Gentle
Potential Drawbacks
Similac ProTotal Comfort: Some parents note that this formula may be a bit higher in cost compared to others. Additionally, availability might be an issue due to its specific formulation catering to sensitive digestive needs.
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease: While generally cost-effective, some parents report occasional stock issues. The inclusion of corn syrup solids may be a concern for those trying to avoid this component in their baby's diet.
Conclusion
Both Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease offer unique advantages for infants with specific dietary needs or sensitivities. Similac ProTotal Comfort is a solid choice for those seeking a lactose-free option, while Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease is excellent for reducing gas and fussiness with the added benefit of DHA for brain development. Ultimately, the choice between these two will depend on your baby’s unique needs, family preferences, and pediatrician recommendations. Always consult with a healthcare professional when deciding on infant formula to ensure your baby receives tailored nutritional support.
Sources*
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Buy Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 10.80 g | |
| 2.32 g | 0.02 | Protein | 2.30 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 220.00 | Linoleic Acid | 780.00 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 23.00 | Calcium | -23.00 | 82.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 29.00 | Phosphorus | -29.00 | 46.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.25 | Zinc | 0.25 | 1.00 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 15.00 | Copper | -15.00 | 75.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mg |
| 44.00 mg | 4.00 | Sodium | -4.00 | 40.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 10.00 | Potassium | -10.00 | 108.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 2.00 | Chloride | -2.00 | 63.00 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -10.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 54.00 | Vitamin B6 | -54.00 | 6.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 50.00 | Niacin | -50.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 1.40 | Biotin | -1.40 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |