What Formula is Comparable To Neocate
Are you looking for high-quality baby formula for babies who cannot take regular cow milk formula because they have a sensitive tummy? Alimentum and Neocate are both top quality formulas and will solve the issue with your baby.
However, there are crucial differences between them, and it is important to know them before making your order. Read on for a detailed Alimentum vs Neocate comparison in the next section.
Lactose intolerance, colic, and cow milk allergies are very common in newborns, and there will be no peace at home unless you solve them. However, realizing what is wrong with your baby and finding a solution can be daunting, especially for first-time parents.
Nonstop crying, constipating, hives, diarrhoea and reflux are significant symptoms of a baby reacting to cow milk formula. Before switching up formulas, consult with your pediatrician for a diagnosis. If the baby is found to be lactose intolerant or with milk allergies, your doctor will prescribe hypoallergenic formulas is Alimentum or Neocate.
Alimentum and Neocate have many similarities, such that they can be interchanged. However, the effectiveness of the formulas depends on your child. Let us explore Alimentum and Neocate in detail and later write the similarities and differences to help you choose the best for your child.
Alimentum Review
- HYPOALLERGENIC: Our formula contains a milk protein that is broken down into tiny pieces to virtually eliminate allergic reactions in most babies who are allergic to cow’s milk protein
- START FEELING BETTER TODAY* : Similac Alimentum starts reducing colic symptoms due to protein sensitivity within 24 hours in most infants*
- HAS AN IMMUNE-NOURISHING INGREDIENT: First and only hypoallergenic formula with 2′- FL HMO, an immune-nourishing ingredient
Similac Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula recommended for babies with digestive issues. It works perfectly for children who cannot digest regular cow milk formulas and is a perfect relief for colic. It reduces crying due to colic within 48 hours.
It is available in powder and ready to feed form. The RTF formula is a savior for busy mums and travelling families but comes at an extra cost.
Features of Alimentum formula
Ingredients
Similac Alimentum is made using corn maltodextrin as the carbohydrate and casein hydrolysate as protein. The casein protein is broken down into small pieces, making it easy to digest for babies with a sensitive digestive system. Also, it is lactose-free, making it suitable for lactose intolerant babies.
Alimentum is nutritionally whole with Vitamin E, Lutein and contains DHA and ARA nutrients found in breast milk, which help develop the brain and eyes.
Taste and smell
Similac comes in powder and ready to feed form, and they have varied tastes and smells. The powder form has a strong scent and taste that can be unappetizing. You can, however, add vanilla essence as a sweetener. On the other hand, RTF Similac is sweat and loved by most babies.
Price
Alimentum is pricey baby formula, with the ready to feed form being more expensive. If your doctor has recommended Similac and you are on a budget, opt for the powder form at the expense of an awful taste and preparation.
To save on cost, check the Similac website for rewards and offers. What’s more, some insurance companies cover the cost of the Similac formula; therefore, check if yours can.
Pros of Alimentum formula
- Gentle on babies suffering from milk allergies
- Readily available in both physical and online stores
- Relieves babies of colic, gassiness and reflux within 48 hours
Cons of Alimentum formula
- Too pricey for some parents
- Strong smell and awful taste
Read also Does Alimentum cause constipation
Neocate formula review
Neocate is a hypoallergenic amino acid-based baby formula. It is nutritionally complete for healthy baby development. It is a top pediatrician recommendation for babies with sensitive digestive system and milk allergies. Neocate is available in infant (newborn to 12 months) and junior versions (12 months plus) so that your baby can continue getting the benefits after 12 years.
Features of Neocate baby formula
Ingredients
The main ingredients of Neocate are amino acids. Therefore, it is suitable for babies having issues digesting whole proteins or hydrolyzed proteins. It is lactose-free, making it a perfect solution for lactose intolerant babies.
What’s more, Neocate contains necessary minerals, vitamins and has ARA and DHA for brain and eye development.
Additionally, Neocate does not contain soy oils or corn syrup, and it is not enriched with artificial colors or sweeteners.
Taste and smell
Neocate has a strong smell and taste, which many babies do not like. Also, most parents find the formula watery than it should be. Resist the temptation to add more powder because this is a characteristic of most amino acid formulas. Stick to the mixing guidelines, and hopefully, your baby will get used to it as time goes by.
Cost
Neocate is an expensive baby formula compared to other hypoallergenic formulas and regular cow milk formulas. Therefore, if you intend to use this formula, save up for it in advance. Also, check their website for coupons or other offers for a price reduction.
Pros of Neocate formula
- Suitable for babies with milk allergies or lactose intolerance
- It contains vital minerals and vitamins for a baby’s development
- Free of GMOs, corn, soy, lactose, synthetic preservatives, colors and sweeteners
- It comes in infant and junior versions; therefore, you do not have to change the formula when your baby hits one year.
Cons of Neocate formula
- Pricey than regular formula
- Unpleasant smell and taste
Alimentum vs Neocate comparison
Similarities of Alimentum and Neocate baby formulas
- Both Alimentum and Neocate are advertised as hypoallergenic
- Both formulas are designed for infants with issues digesting cow milk formulas
- Their unique ingredients help to relieve colic, constipation and other side effects of regular milk
- Both formulas are more expensive than regular cow milk formulas, but they can be covered by insurance.
- Alimentum and Neocate formulas are full of nutrients required for healthy development and contain DHA and ARA nutrients found in breast milk.
Read also Similac ready to feed vs powder
Main Differences between Alimentum vs Neocate
Alimentum | Neocate |
Uses casein hydrolysate and corn maltodextrin. | Hypoallergenic amino-acid based formula. Does not use milk or milk products. |
Designed for babies with medium and moderate cow milk allergies. | Designed for severe cow milk allergy because it does not use milk or milk products as ingredients. |
Available in powder and ready to feed form. The powder form is cheaper and has an awful taste and aftertaste. | Available in powder form only and has an unappetizing taste and smell. |
Cheaper than Neocate and other hypoallergenic formulas | Neocate costs more |
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FAQs on Alimentum vs Neocate
Can I switch from Alimentum to Neocate?
Yes, you can switch to Neocate but always consult with your pediatrician. Neocate is designed for babies with extreme cow milk allergies. If your baby does not get relief from using Alimentum, your pediatrician will recommend Neocate because it is free of milk and milk products.
How do you prepare the Alimentum or Neocate formula?
Pour clean cold water into a feeding bottle following the ratios in the user manual. Add a scoop of powder as indicated and shake vigorously until everything blends together. Do not reduce or exceed the ratios on the manual because too watery or extra thick paste can sicken your baby.
Does Alimentum or Neocate help with reflux?
Yes, Alimentum and Neocate are widely recommended for babies suffering from severe reflux. Reflux is a common issue with babies, but it is worse for babies struggling with digestive problems. The problem can be solved by introducing hypoallergenic formulas.
How long does it take for Alimentum or Neocate formula to work?
Your baby should be relieved of colic and other side effects within 48 hours after taking Alimentum or Neocate. However, the reaction time depends on your baby. Also, some babies refuse to accept these formulas because of their strong taste and smell. Therefore, give it time, and consider changing to another formula if there is no change after two weeks.
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