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When it comes to infant nutrition, parents often encounter many options, each promising to meet their baby’s needs. Similac, a renowned brand in infant formula, presents two distinct products targeting parents seeking relief for their babies’ sensitive tummies: Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro Total Comfort.
In this article, we will explore the insights and experiences of mothers who have used both formulas, analyze the ingredients in each product, assess their nutritional aspects, and offer guidance on effectively transitioning between the two formulas if necessary.
Whether you’re a new parent searching for the perfect formula or considering switching to an alternative, this comparison aims to assist you in making a well-informed decision for your child’s health and well-being.
Overview: Similac Total Comfort Vs Pro Total Comfort
Similac Total Comfort is formulated to be gentle on delicate tummies, featuring partially hydrolyzed protein, prebiotics, and OptiGRO to support overall development.
Similac Pro-Total Comfort includes 2′-FL HMO, promoting immune system support and DHA for brain and eye development.
Similac Total Comfort
Similac Total Comfort is an infant formula specially crafted to provide comprehensive nutrition for sensitive tummies. Engineered to be gentle, it incorporates partially hydrolyzed protein for improved digestion, offering significant relief for infants struggling with other milk-based formulas. Additionally, it contains prebiotics to promote softer stools and is suitable for infants with lactose sensitivity.
Furthermore, it features OptiGRO, an exclusive blend of DHA, Lutein, and Vitamin E, fostering overall growth and supporting brain, eye, and immune system development. Similac Total Comfort is gluten-free, eligible for purchase with HSA/FSA cards, and SNAP-eligible.
Similac Pro-Total Comfort
Similac Pro-Total Comfort is an easily digestible formula enriched with 2′-FL human milk oligosaccharide (2′-FL HMO), a prebiotic that supports the baby’s developing immune system, reminiscent of that found in breast milk. This formula is gentle and ideal for babies experiencing difficulty tolerating other milk-based formulas, often manifesting as fussiness, gas, and crying.
With no palm olein oil, it promotes excellent calcium absorption and includes essential nutrients such as DHA and Lutein to support the baby’s brain and eye development, akin to those found in breast milk. It can be purchased using an in-store HSA/FSA card like its counterpart.
Key Features Table of Similac Total Comfort Vs Pro Total Comfort
Criteria | Similac Total Comfort | Similac Pro-Total Comfort |
Designed for | Designed for delicate tummies | delicate tummies and immunity support |
Protein | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | Same |
Prebiotics | Yes, fructooligosaccharides (FOS). | Yes, fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and 2'-FL HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharide). |
Probiotics | No ❌ | No ❌ |
Carbohydrate Content | 10.7g of carbohydrates derived from corn maltodextrin. | Same |
Fat Content | 5.4g of fat, derived from high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil. | Same |
Palm Olein Oil | No ❌ | No ❌ |
Special Addition | OptiGRO, which includes DHA, lutein, and vitamin E | 2'-FL HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharide) |
Price |
Composition of Nutrients
Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro-Total Comfort share similar nutritional compositions. Both formulas contain partially hydrolyzed whey protein, providing the same protein content, along with 10.7g of carbohydrates sourced from corn maltodextrin and 5.4g of fat enriched with beneficial oils. Notably, neither formula contains lactose or added palm oil.
Content of protein
Both Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro-Total Comfort provide 2.32 grams of protein per 5 fluid ounces serving, meeting the nutritional needs of growing infants.
These formulas feature whey protein hydrolysate, which is partially broken down to aid in digestion.
Both formulations utilize the same protein source, partially hydrolyzed whey protein, in equal amounts.
While both formulas are suitable for infants experiencing difficulties digesting cow’s milk protein, they may not be appropriate for those diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA). In such cases, an extensively hydrolyzed formula would be recommended.
Content of carbohydrates
Each serving of both formulas supplies 10.7 grams of carbohydrates, primarily sourced from Corn Maltodextrin, a highly digestible carbohydrate derived from corn that provides infants with essential energy.
Both Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro-Total Comfort are formulated for babies with digestive sensitivities, including lactose intolerance.
Therefore, neither formula contains lactose, opting instead for corn maltodextrin as a substitute. This ensures that babies with lactose digestion issues can consume these formulas without difficulty.
It’s worth noting that corn maltodextrin is preferred over corn syrup solids, commonly found in many other US-manufactured formulas, due to its lower sugar content and more neutral flavour profile.
Oils and fats
Fat content is essential for infant growth, brain development, and energy. Both Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro-Total Comfort provide 5.4 grams of fat per 5 fluid ounces serving. These formulas derive their fat from a blend of High Oleic Safflower Oil, Soy Oil, and Coconut Oil.
Both formulas contain Schizochytrium sp. oil and M. Alpina Oil, rich sources of beneficial fatty acids such as DHA and ARA, crucial for brain and eye development.
There is no difference in fat content between the two formulas.
Moreover, neither formula includes non-organic palm oil or palm olein, which aligns with preferences for healthier options.
Probiotics And Prebiotics
Both Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro-Total Comfort contain short-chain fructooligosaccharides to promote a healthy gut environment. However, the Pro version includes 2′-FL HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides).
While neither formula explicitly contains probiotics, they are both rich in prebiotics. Prebiotics are fiber compounds that pass through the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract undigested, stimulating the growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the baby’s gut, thus enhancing overall health.
The Pro-Total Comfort variant contains 2′-FL HMO, a prebiotic naturally found in breast milk, while both formulas feature Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharides as prebiotics.
It’s important to note that neither formula explicitly contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support digestion and contribute to a healthy gut environment.
Comparison of Mom’s Reviews
Similac Total Comfort
Positive feedback from parents who have used Similac Total Comfort includes:
Gas Relief: Many moms reported that the formula effectively reduced gas in their babies, leading to decreased fussiness and discomfort, which ultimately made both the parents and infants happier.
Reduced Colic Symptoms: Parents found that Similac Total Comfort helped alleviate colic symptoms in their babies. The formula appeared to provide relief to infants struggling with colic-related issues.
Improved Bowel Movements: Several reviewers noted that their babies experienced better and more regular bowel movements while using this formula. This improvement can be exceptionally comforting for both babies and parents.
Gentle on Stomachs: Moms appreciated that the formula was gentle on their baby’s stomachs, making the digestion process easier for infants who may have experienced discomfort with other formulas.
Enhanced Sleep Patterns: Improved digestion and reduced discomfort seemed to result in better sleep patterns for some babies. This was a welcomed benefit for sleep-deprived parents.
Negative feedback from parents who have used Similac Total Comfort includes:
Clumping/Foaming: Some mothers experienced issues with formula clumping or foaming when preparing it. This could be slightly inconvenient during feeding times and may affect the overall feeding experience.
Gas and Diarrhea: While some moms found the formula helpful for gas, a few others reported that their babies experienced gas and diarrhea issues with this formula. It’s important to acknowledge that individual responses to formula can vary, and some babies may not tolerate particular ingredients well.
Availability: The availability of Similac Total Comfort may have been an issue for some parents. This could lead to challenges in finding the product in local stores, causing inconvenience when trying to purchase it.
Similac Pro Total Comfort
Positive feedback from parents who have used Similac Pro-Total Comfort includes:
Gentle on Baby’s Stomach: Moms praised Similac Pro-Total Comfort for being gentle on their baby’s sensitive stomachs. It was often described as an easy-to-digest formula, providing relief for infants with digestive sensitivities.
Effective for Digestive Issues: Reviewers noted that this formula was effective for babies with various digestive issues, such as colic and reflux. It appeared to alleviate discomfort associated with these conditions, improving the overall well-being of the baby.
Reduced Gas and Fussiness: Parents observed a decrease in gas and fussiness when their babies were fed this formula. This reduction in discomfort made for a more peaceful and content baby, leading to happier parents as well.
Improved Bowel Movements: Similar to Similac Total Comfort, this formula seemed to help with more regular and comfortable bowel movements, which is essential for the overall health and comfort of the baby.
Relief for Reflux and Colic: Moms found this formula helpful in reducing symptoms of reflux and colic in their infants. It provided relief and comfort to babies who struggled with these conditions, making feeding times more enjoyable for both baby and parent.
Negative feedback from parents who have used Similac Pro-Total Comfort includes:
Constipation: Some parents reported that their babies experienced constipation after using Similac Pro-Total Comfort. It’s important to note that individual responses can vary, and what works well for one baby may not work for another.
Expense: Several reviewers mentioned that this formula could be relatively expensive, which might be a drawback for cost-conscious parents. It’s essential for parents to weigh the costs against the benefits when considering this formula for their baby.
Availability Issues: Similar to Similac Total Comfort, availability problems were noted by some parents, making it harder to find in stores. This might require additional planning when purchasing the formula, causing inconvenience for parents.
Mixing Difficulties: A few moms mentioned difficulties in mixing this formula, which could be inconvenient during feedings. Ensuring that the formula is adequately mixed is essential for the baby’s comfort, and any issues with mixing can disrupt feeding routines.
Both formulas garnered praise for their effectiveness in addressing digestive issues, minimizing gas, and promoting regular bowel movements. However, both encountered challenges related to availability. Similac Total Comfort received varied feedback, with some users reporting gas and clumping problems. Conversely, Similac Pro Total Comfort was deemed costly by certain parents and encountered difficulties with mixing during preparation.
Last Word
In summary, Similac provides two widely recognized formulas, Similac Total Comfort and Similac Pro Total Comfort, tailored to meet the needs of infants with sensitive stomachs. Both formulas hail from a reputable brand and share numerous similarities, such as their recommended age range, protein source, macronutrient composition, and added nutrients like OptiGro and prebiotics. Additionally, both formulas are non-GMO and have alternative options from generic brands.
When deciding between the two, several distinctions should be taken into account. Similac Total Comfort boasts a marginally higher user satisfaction rating and maybe a cost-efficient selection for parents who prefer smaller container sizes. Conversely, Similac Pro Total Comfort incorporates the 2′-FL HMO prebiotic and provides a
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