FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for supporting a baby's growth and development, especially when breastfeeding isn’t an option or supplementing is necessary. With a wide variety of infant formulas available, parents often find themselves overwhelmed with options, each with different ingredients and nutritional profiles. In this blog post, we will compare two popular infant formulas: Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula and Similac ProTotal Comfort, detailing their compositions, benefits, and potential considerations.
Nutritional Composition
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula and Similac ProTotal Comfort are both designed to cater to infants with sensitive tummies, but they offer distinct nutritional compositions also tailored to specific needs. Enfamil Sensitive primarily uses milk-protein isolate with a blend of carbohydrates, and it avoids lactose to enhance digestibility. Its fat blend includes palm olein and coconut oil. On the other hand, Similac ProTotal Comfort employs partially hydrolyzed whey protein which is easier on the digestive system for some infants, and its carbohydrate source is maltodextrin. The fat blend includes safflower, soy, and other vegetable oils.
Key Differences
| Feature | Enfamil Sensitive | Similac ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Milk-protein isolate (whey:casein ratio undisclosed) | Partially hydrolyzed whey protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn syrup solids (lactose-free) | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, coco oil | Safflower oil, soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No prebiotics or probiotics | Prebiotics (2’-FL HMO) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Similar levels for brain development | Similar levels with added benefits for digestion |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard amounts for infant formulas | Standard amounts with slightly higher calcium levels |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | $0.20 - $0.25 | $0.19 - $0.24 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary depending on the retailer or location.
Special Features and Benefits
Enfamil Sensitive is particularly suitable for babies who exhibit fussiness or gas due to lactose sensitivity, as it is formulated to minimize such discomforts without including lactose in its ingredients. It also caters to families looking for non-GMO products. Similac ProTotal Comfort offers a unique advantage with its inclusion of 2’-FL HMO, a prebiotic known to support gut health by fostering beneficial bacteria similar to those found in breastfed infants, and partially hydrolyzed proteins facilitate easier digestion.
Target Audience
Enfamil Sensitive is aimed at infants with lactose sensitivity who may struggle with conventional formulas. It can also benefit babies experiencing mild digestive discomfort but are not allergic to cow's milk protein. Similac ProTotal Comfort is suitable for infants with sensitive digestive systems who might benefit from a formula with prebiotics and easier-to-digest protein. Parents may find this formula helpful in alleviating issues related to gas or colic.
Alternatives
Enfamil Sensitive Alternatives
1. Enfamil Gentlease
2. Gerber Good Start Gentle
3. Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
4. Parent's Choice Sensitivity
5. Happy Baby Organic Sensitive
Similac ProTotal Comfort Alternatives
1. Similac Sensitive
2. Gerber Good Start SoothePro
3. Earth’s Best Organic Gentle
4. Happy Baby Organic Gentle
5. Parent's Choice Gentle
Potential Drawbacks
Enfamil Sensitive and Similac ProTotal Comfort both have similar potential drawbacks. One primary concern is cost, as specialized formulas can be more expensive than regular formulas, potentially creating long-term financial implications for families. Availability can also vary by location, and sometimes, controversial ingredients like palm oil (which may affect calcium absorption) in Enfamil Sensitive, or soy oil in Similac ProTotal Comfort, can be a concern for some parents.
Conclusion
To sum up, both Enfamil Sensitive and Similac ProTotal Comfort offer unique benefits tailored to infants with specific digestive needs. Enfamil Sensitive matches infants who react negatively to lactose, while Similac ProTotal Comfort caters more towards promoting a healthy gut flora. Ultimately, choosing between these formulas depends on your baby’s specific sensitivities and health requirements. As always, consulting with a pediatrician before switching or starting any formula is recommended to ensure the best care and support for your baby’s nutritional health.
Sources*
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online
Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 0.20 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.32 g | 0.12 | Protein | 2.20 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 1000.00 | Linoleic Acid | 0 |
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 Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 17.00 | Calcium | -17.00 | 88.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 16.00 | Phosphorus | -16.00 | 59.00 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 mcg |
| 44.00 mg | 11.00 | Sodium | -11.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 8.00 | Potassium | -8.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -2.00 | Chloride | 2.00 | 67.00 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 Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 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 mcg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |