Similac vs Similac Advance: What’s the difference?
Parenthood is a journey filled with excitement, nervousness, and doubt. A parent’s main concern is to provide their child with the best possible care. One of the crucial aspects of child-rearing is nutrition. Starting with breastfeeding, it is essential to keep up the healthy intake of nutrients once you start weaning off. This is where formula milk comes into the picture. Although it doesn’t replace breast milk, it can aid in providing necessary nutrients to your child. Amongst formula milk brands, Similac and Similac Advance are two prominent names. In the following article, we will discuss the difference between Similac and Similac Advance.
What is Similac?
Similac is a brand of infant formula made by Abbott Laboratories. It has been around since the 1920s. The formula comprises carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with vitamins and minerals, to meet the baby’s nutritional requirements. It is available in Ready-to-Feed, Powder, and Liquid concentrate forms.
Examples of Similac
The following are types of Similac infant formulas:
– Similac Pro-Advance
– Similac Pro-Sensitive
– Similac Pure Bliss
– Similac Alimentum
– Similac NeoSure
Uses of Similac
Similac is a product used to supplement or replace breast milk in infants. It is a complete ready-to-feed formula that provides all the nutrients that a baby needs to grow and develop.
What is Similac Advance?
Similac Advance is a premium infant formula also manufactured by Abbott Laboratories. It is designed for babies experiencing mild to moderate feeding problems caused by lactose sensitivity, fussiness, or gas. It contains a blend of DHA, Lutein, and vitamin E to support the overall development of the infant.
Examples of Similac Advance
The following are types of Similac Advance infant formulas:
– Similac Advance
– Similac Advance Organic
– Similac Advance Pro-Sensitive
– Similac Advance Pro-Total Comfort
Uses of Similac Advance
Similac Advance is used as a replacement for breast milk or to supplement it. It is also prescribed in cases where a child is lactose intolerant, prone to gas or fussiness, or experiencing mild to moderate feeding problems.
Differences Table
The following table highlights ten differences between Similac and Similac Advance in terms of their area of difference.
| Difference Area | Similac | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Serves all infants | Designed for infants with mild to moderate feeding problems |
| Nutritional Benefits | Supports growth and development in babies | Contains DHA, Lutein, and Vitamin E to support brain and eye development |
| Lactose Content | Contains lactose | Some variants are lactose-free |
| Formula Forms | Available in powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed forms | Available in powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed forms |
| Age Range | Suitable for 0-12 months | Suitable for 0-12 months |
| Price | Relatively affordable | More expensive than Similac |
| Product Range | Has a larger variety of formulas | Has a limited range of formulas |
| Availability | Widely available | May not be readily available in some regions |
| Taste | Similar to breast milk taste | Some variants have an artificial taste |
| Customer Reviews | Considerably higher ratings | Mixed reviews |
Conclusion
Similac and Similac Advance are two widely known infant formula brands. Similac is a versatile formula catering to all infants’ nutritional needs, while Similac Advance is formulated for infants who experience mild to moderate feeding problems. While both serve the same purpose, the differences lie in the target audience, nutritional benefits, lactose content, price, and taste, among others. Before choosing any formula, it is important to take into account the age of the infant, any health concerns, and the nutritional needs.
Knowledge Check
1. What is Similac Advance used for?
Answer: Similac Advance is used for infants who experience mild to moderate feeding problems.
2. Does Similac have lactose?
Answer: Yes, Similac contains lactose.
3. What age group is suitable for Similac?
Answer: Similac is suitable for infants aged 0-12 months.
4. Which infant formula brand has more variants?
Answer: Similac has a larger range of formulas compared to Similac Advance.
5. Which is more affordable of the two, Similac or Similac Advance?
Answer: Similac is relatively more affordable than Similac Advance.
6. Do some Similac Advance variants have an artificial taste?
Answer: Yes, some Similac Advance variants have an artificial taste.
7. Which variant of Similac Advance is lactose-free?
Answer: Similac Advance Pro-Sensitive is lactose-free.
8. What are the nutritional benefits of Similac Advance?
Answer: Similac Advance contains DHA, Lutein, and Vitamin E to support brain and eye development.
9. What is the target audience for Similac?
Answer: Similac serves all infants.
10. Are Similac and Similac Advance readily available in all regions?
Answer: Similac and Similac Advance may not be readily available in some regions.
Related Topics
– Infant nutrition
– Formula milk types
– Baby food stages
– Parenting and baby care
