FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Similac Alimentum
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Selecting the right infant formula is crucial for the health and development of a baby, especially for those unable to breastfeed. With numerous choices on the market, it can be overwhelming for parents to decide on the best option. Similac Alimentum and Similac ProTotal Comfort are two popular choices, each offering unique benefits tailored to specific dietary needs. This blog post will provide a comprehensive comparison to help parents make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional components of infant formulas is paramount. Both Similac Alimentum and Similac ProTotal Comfort are designed to meet the nutritional requirements of infants, but their formulations differ to cater to different dietary needs.
Similac Alimentum is known for its extensively hydrolyzed protein, making it suitable for infants with severe food allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity. It typically includes casein hydrolysate, making the protein easier to digest.
Similac ProTotal Comfort uses partially hydrolyzed whey protein, designed for easier digestion and reduced fussiness due to mild lactose sensitivity. Its carbohydrate source is primarily corn maltodextrin, differing from the lactose-based formula options.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Similac ProTotal Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Casein Hydrolysate | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Corn Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Safflower, MCT, Soy Oil | Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Contains Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Iron-rich, moderate calcium | Iron-fortified, adequate calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $1.20 (estimate) | $1.00 (estimate) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is specifically designed for infants with severe allergies and colicky symptoms, thanks to its broken-down proteins. This formula is hypoallergenic and offers quick relief from digestive discomfort.
Similac ProTotal Comfort is tailored for infants with mild digestive issues or lactose sensitivity. It features gentle, partially hydrolyzed proteins and added prebiotics to promote a healthy gut environment.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is best suited for infants with cow's milk protein allergies, colic due to protein sensitivity, or conditions requiring an amino acid-based diet. Meanwhile, Similac ProTotal Comfort is ideal for babies experiencing mild lactose intolerance or general fussiness and gas.
Alternatives
Similac Alimentum Alternatives
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Alfamino Infant
- Neocate Infant
- PurAmino Hypoallergenic
Similac ProTotal Comfort Alternatives
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Earth's Best Sensitivity
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive
- Parent's Choice Tender
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum can be relatively expensive and may not be readily available in all stores. Its taste may also be less appealing to some infants compared to standard formulas. Similac ProTotal Comfort, while cost-effective and widely available, may not address severe allergies or intolerances as effectively as Alimentum.
Conclusion
Choosing between Similac Alimentum and Similac ProTotal Comfort depends largely on your baby's specific nutritional needs. Alimentum is optimal for severe allergies and colic, while ProTotal Comfort benefits those with mild digestive discomfort. Always consult with a pediatrician when considering formula changes to ensure that the chosen product meets your child’s specific dietary requirements.
Sources*
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.14 | 5.54 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.50 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 2.32 g | Protein | 0.43 | 2.75 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 200.00 | Linoleic Acid | 800.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -1.50 | Magnesium | 1.50 | 7.50 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -3.00 | Manganese | 3.00 | 8.00 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 | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 44.00 mg | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -15.00 | Chloride | 15.00 | 80.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -1.50 | Vitamin E | 1.50 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 40.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -40.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -60.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.20 | Vitamin B12 | 0.20 | 0.45 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -300.00 | Niacin | 300.00 | 1350.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 300.00 | 750.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -0.10 | Biotin | 0.10 | 4.50 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 12.00 | Choline | -12.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 19.00 | Inositol | -19.00 | 5.00 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 |