FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF


Updated: 12/7/2024


Introduction

Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for many parents. The right formula can ensure the baby receives essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort are two popular choices. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is specially designed for premature infants making the transition from hospital to home, while Similac ProTotal Comfort is formulated for babies experiencing discomfort due to feeding issues. This blog post delves into a detailed comparison of these two formulas to assist parents in making an informed choice.

Nutritional Composition

Understanding the nutritional composition of formulas is crucial. Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF provides higher levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for catch-up growth in premature infants. Its protein is primarily whey, designed to be easily digestible. In contrast, Similac ProTotal Comfort contains a partially hydrolyzed protein that can help ease digestive discomfort in babies. Both formulas include DHA/ARA, essential omega fatty acids that support brain and eye development. However, ProTotal Comfort has its nutrients tailored specifically to alleviate gastrointestinal issues.

Key Differences

Aspect Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Similac ProTotal Comfort
Protein Source Whey (More Whey than casein) Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
Carbohydrate Source Lactose Corn Maltodextrin, Sucrose
Fat Source Safflower Oil, MCT Oil, Soy Oil Palm Olein, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil
Prebiotics and Probiotics No added prebiotics or probiotics Contains Prebiotic (GOS)
Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels Yes Yes
Iron and Calcium Content High Moderate
Estimated Cost per Ounce Approximately $0.20 Approximately $0.25
Organic or Non-GMO Certification Non-GMO Non-GMO

Special Features and Benefits

Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is specifically designed to meet the higher nutritional needs of premature infants post-hospital discharge, offering increased calorie content and higher concentrations of essential nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus for bone development. Similac ProTotal Comfort, on the other hand, is crafted for sensitive tummies, featuring partially hydrolyzed protein for easier digestion and a prebiotic blend to support gut health.

Target Audience

Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is ideal for prematurely born infants transitioning from hospital care, as it caters to their need for high-energy, nutrient-rich diets to support rapid growth. Similac ProTotal Comfort is suitable for babies who experience fussiness, gas, or mild spit-up issues due to formula intolerance or sensitivity, thanks to its gentle formulation.

Alternatives

Alternatives for Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF

- Enfamil Enfacare
- Gerber Good Start Premature
- Earth's Best Organic Low Lactose
- Parent's Choice Preemie Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Premature Infant Formula

Alternatives for Similac ProTotal Comfort

- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Sensitive
- Parent's Choice Gentle Formula

Potential Drawbacks

Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF can be cost-prohibitive for some families due to its enhanced nutrient profile, and some babies might not prefer its taste. Similac ProTotal Comfort might not be ideal for parents strictly avoiding ingredients like corn maltodextrin or those seeking formulas with organic certification. Additionally, both formulas may not be consistently available in all regions, leading to potential accessibility issues.

Conclusion

In summary, while both Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort offer tailored nutritional profiles to meet specific needs, they serve distinct purposes. Similac NeoSure is best suited for preemies requiring nutritional catch-up, while ProTotal Comfort benefits babies with gastrointestinal issues. As always, parents should consult with their pediatrician to confirm the best choice for their baby's health and nutritional requirements.

Sources*

Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online

Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Online

+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.

View All Compares

Start here

Nutrient comparison

Similac ProTotal Comfort +/- Data +/- Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
5.40 g Fat 0.10 5.50 g
10.70 g 0.60 Carbohydrate 10.10 g
2.32 g Protein 0.48 2.80 g
1000.00 mg 250.00 Linoleic Acid 750.00 mg

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 NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
105.00 mg 0.00 Calcium 0.00 105.00 mg
75.00 mg 13.00 Phosphorus -13.00 62.00 mg
6.00 mg -3.00 Magnesium 3.00 9.00 mg
1.80 mg 0.00 Iron 0.00 1.80 mg
0.75 mg -0.45 Zinc 0.45 1.20 mg
5.00 mcg -5.00 Manganese 5.00 10.00 mcg
90.00 mcg -30.00 Copper 30.00 120.00 mcg
15.00 mcg 0.00 Iodine 0.00 15.00 mcg
2.00 mcg -0.30 Selenium 0.30 2.30 mcg
44.00 mg 11.00 Sodium -11.00 33.00 mg
118.00 mg -24.00 Potassium 24.00 142.00 mg
65.00 mg -10.00 Chloride 10.00 75.00 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 NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
1.50 IU -2.10 Vitamin E 2.10 3.60 IU
8.00 mcg -3.00 Vitamin K 3.00 11.00 mcg
100.00 mcg -75.00 Thiamin (Vit B1) 75.00 175.00 mcg
150.00 mcg 0.00 Riboflavin (Vit B2) 0.00 150.00 mcg
60.00 mcg -40.00 Vitamin B6 40.00 100.00 mcg
0.25 mcg -0.15 Vitamin B12 0.15 0.40 mcg
1050.00 mcg -900.00 Niacin 900.00 1950.00 mcg
15.00 mcg -10.00 Folic Acid 10.00 25.00 mcg
450.00 mcg -350.00 Pantothenic Acid 350.00 800.00 mcg
4.40 mcg -4.60 Biotin 4.60 9.00 mcg
9.00 mg -6.00 Vitamin C 6.00 15.00 mg
24.00 mg 8.00 Choline -8.00 16.00 mg
24.00 mg -11.00 Inositol 11.00 35.00 mg
300.00 IU -50.00 Vitamin A 50.00 350.00 IU
60.00 IU -10.00 Vitamin D 10.00 70.00 IU