FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF vs ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a significant decision for parents, as it provides essential nutrients needed for a baby's growth and development, particularly during the first year of life. Two popular formulas in the market are ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and Similac ProTotal Comfort Ready-to-Feed (RTF). This blog post delves into the nutritional composition, key differences, special features, and target audiences for these products.
Nutritional Composition
Both ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF aim to offer crucial nutrients; however, their compositions vary. ByHeart is known for using whole milk as its primary protein source, offering a balance of proteins like whey and casein. In contrast, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF provides partially hydrolyzed whey protein, which can be easier to digest for babies with sensitive stomachs. Carbohydrate sources also differ, with ByHeart primarily using lactose and Similac utilizing maltodextrin. In terms of fats, ByHeart avoids palm oil, preferring alternatives like organic vegetable oils, while Similac relies on a palm olein oil blend. Both products are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, though their formulation might differ slightly to enhance absorption and bioavailability.
Key Differences
| Feature | ByHeart Whole Nutrition | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whole Milk (whey and casein) | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Organic Vegetable Oils (no palm oil) | Palm Olein Oil Blend |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics present | Probiotics present |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | High | Moderate |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Iron-rich, balanced calcium | Iron and calcium supportive |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 | $0.60 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Organic and Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary based on region and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
ByHeart's formula is notable for its avoidance of palm oil and its focus on organic ingredients, aiming to mirror the nutritional profile of breast milk closely. It includes prebiotics aiding gut health development. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, on the other hand, is developed with partially hydrolyzed proteins, making it particularly suitable for infants with protein sensitivities or mild digestive issues, and it includes probiotics to support digestive balance.
Target Audience
ByHeart Whole Nutrition is ideal for parents seeking an organic, clean-label formula that prioritizes nutrient quality over processing, making it suitable for infants who follow more traditional consumption patterns. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF caters to babies who experience mild discomfort or sensitivity with standard formulas, providing a gentler alternative that is easier on the digestive system.
Alternatives
Alternatives to ByHeart Whole Nutrition
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle Pro
- Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
- Burt’s Bees Baby Ultra Gentle Organic
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
- Similac Alimentum
- Parent's Choice Gentle Formula
Potential Drawbacks
ByHeart Whole Nutrition, while offering organic certifications, may be more expensive and less readily available in all markets. Its reliance on lactose could be unsuitable for lactose-detolerant infants. Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, although designed for sensitive stomachs, relies on a palm olein oil blend, which may be a concern for some parents due to its digestibility and absorption profile. Additionally, both formulas fall on the higher end of the price spectrum, which could pose budgetary challenges.
Conclusion
Deciding between ByHeart Whole Nutrition and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF depends largely on your baby's specific dietary needs and sensitivities. ByHeart is a powerful contender for those prioritizing organic ingredients and a traditional formulation, while Similac serves as a lifeline for easing digestive troubles. Always consult with a pediatrician to tailor the best nutritional plan for your baby’s growth trajectory and ensure a well-rounded and safe dietary regimen.
Sources*
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF Online
Buy ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.40 | 5.80 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.40 | Carbohydrate | 10.30 g | |
| 2.32 g | 0.32 | Protein | 2.00 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 300.00 | Linoleic Acid | 700.00 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 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 | 0.80 | Iron | -0.80 | 1.00 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.05 | Zinc | -0.05 | 0.70 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 23.00 | Copper | -23.00 | 67.00 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 | 8.00 | Sodium | -8.00 | 36.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 11.00 | Potassium | -11.00 | 107.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | ByHeart Whole Nutrition 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 | -2.00 | Choline | 2.00 | 26.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 18.00 | Inositol | -18.00 | 6.00 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 |