Choosing the best baby formula for your little one is no small task. With so many options available, it is important to understand the differences between baby formulas and learn which one will work best for your baby’s needs. When looking at two of the leading brands, Alimentum and Nutramigen, there are several key points of comparison to consider.
Alimentum and Nutramigen are both trusted, science-backed brands that offer a range of options designed to meet the needs of infants with different dietary sensitivities. In addition to their original formulas made with cow’s milk protein, they both offer specialized formulas made with partially broken down proteins that are easier for babies to digest. These formulas are known as “hypoallergenic” types and can be used for babies that have difficulty digesting cow’s milk-based formulas.
This guide will provide an in-depth look at both Alimentum and Nutramigen through a comprehensive comparison of their hypoallergenic baby formula offerings. Having this knowledge will help put parents in a better position when making decisions about what type of formula might be best for their child.
Alimentum
Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula designed to reduce fussiness, gas and food allergies in infants. It is designed to be nutritionally complete, providing all essential vitamins and minerals. Alimentum contains a higher amount of fat and protein than other formulas. It is a good choice for babies who need a formula that is easy to digest and has no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
Now, let’s compare Alimentum with Nutramigen.
Ingredients
For parents who are concerned about what goes into their baby’s formula, both Alimentum and Nutramigen provide detailed ingredient lists. In general, both formulas use a protein-breakdown process to reduce allergens and provide essential nutrients.
Alimentum is made up of cow’s milk protein that has been extensively hydrolyzed and partially fermented to break down complex proteins into simpler forms that babies can digest more easily. It also contains corn syrup solids for the energy needed for your baby’s growth and development, as well as high oleic safflower oil, coconut oil, and mortierella alpina for added nutrition. Vitamins A, D, E, K, C, B6 and B12 are added for nutritional balance.
Benefits
When it comes to determining which baby formula is best for your little one, Alimentum and Nutramigen are both safe options that provide essential nutrients for growth and development. Both formulas contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium and more. Additionally, Alimentum and Nutramigen both have prebiotics to support digestive health.
Alimentum contains amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) that help nourish the body’s cells and tissues. This formula also contains a special blend of carbohydrates to provide energy. Furthermore, Alimentum has been hydrolyzed to make it easier for babies with food allergies or sensitivity issues to digest. It also carries a significantly lower risk of triggering an allergic reaction than other formulas.
Cost
When it comes to cost, you’ll need to pay more for Alimentum than you will for Nutramigen. A 24-ounce tin of Alimentum is around $49.99, while a 12.6-ounce can of Nutramigen can be purchased for around $27.99.
While it’s true that the cost difference between the two can add up over time, even for those with lower incomes, there are ways that parents can save money on purchasing baby formula. Grocery store chains such as Kroger and Publix offer discounts if you buy two or more cans at a time, so taking advantage of these deals will help make Alimentum more affordable if it’s the brand that you choose for your child’s formula needs.
Additionally, buying in bulk from online retailers such as Amazon or other online retailers will often offer discounts on price per tin if you purchase several at once rather than one at a time from your local grocer or pharmacy chain store.
Nutramigen
Nutramigen is a baby formula that is specifically designed for babies with severe milk protein allergies. It contains an extensively hydrolyzed formula that helps reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, as well as a special probiotic strain called BB-12, which helps promote a healthy digestive system.
Because of its gentle nature, Nutramigen is a popular choice for parents looking for a formula for their milk-allergic baby. Let’s take a closer look at the features of Nutramigen, and how it compares to Alimentum.
Ingredients
Nutramigen is a hypoallergenic, lactose-free baby formula from Mead Johnson Nutrition, designed for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy and colic. It is specially made for babies who need to avoid cow’s milk proteins in their diets due to food intolerances or allergies.
The main ingredients in Nutramigen include partially hydrolyzed whey and casein proteins, corn syrup solids (corn maltodextrin), vegetable oils (safflower oil and coconut oil), l-arginine, calcium phosphate, l-cysteine hydrochloride, magnesium chloride and ferrous sulfate.
It also contains key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A acetate, vitamin D3, thiamin hydrochloride, vitamin B6 hydrochloride, riboflavin supplement and folic acid. Additionally, it contains omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) as well as other essential amino acids required for the infant’s optimal health.
Finally, Nutramigen contains nonfat dried milk powder as emulsifiers which blend with water to assist in easier digestion with less discomfort for babies with cow’s milk protein intolerance or allergies.
Benefits
Nutramigen provides superior calcium absorption and assimilation. This is especially beneficial in promoting strong bones and healthy teeth in infants, as they are only growing in their early years.
Nutramigen also contains amino acids which can improve the body’s absorption of proteins and fat-soluble vitamins, helping to boost your infant’s immune system. Additionally, Nutramigen contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which is an omega-3 fatty acid useful for aiding neurological development.
The formula also has prebiotics that acts as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping to promote digestive health. Finally, it is lactose-free, making it ideal for those babies with lactose intolerance or sensitivity.
Comparison
Parents may be challenged to decide which one is right for their baby. In order to make an informed decision, it’s important to compare the two formulas to determine which one best suits the baby’s needs.
Nutrition
When parents need to supplement or replace breastfeeding, they must choose the best baby formula for their child. When considering nutrition, two formulas that parents may want to compare are Alimentum and Nutramigen.
Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula that provides complete nutrition for infants with a milk protein allergy or sensitivity. It provides an extensively hydrolyzed form of casein milk protein to help avoid triggering an allergic response. It also includes partially hydrolyzed whey formula, which still contains proteins, but they are smaller and less likely to be responsible for any allergic episodes. Additionally, it features omega-3 fatty acids (DHA & ARA), so that babies can reap the benefits of important fatty acids which help brain and eye growth.
Nutramigen is also a hypoallergenic milk substitute usually given as an alternative when conventional cows’ milk-based infant formulas are either not tolerated or not appropriate for feeding due to cows’ milk allergy, multiple food intolerances, or preexisting conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is made from broken down extensively hydrolyzed cow’s milk proteins, corn maltodextrin, and modified cornstarch.
As such it has reduced levels of Casein A1 compared with other formulas making it suitable for babies with cows’ milk allergies or food intolerance issues such as GERD. Additionally, like Alimentum, Nutramigen contains omega 3 & 6 fatty acid blend including DHA & ARA in order to provide essential components of infant feeding otherwise not provided by other baby foods or supplements in order to promote normal visual and cognitive development in children under two years old.
Taste
When making a choice between Alimentum and Nutramigen baby formulas, it’s important to consider the taste of each option. Both of these formulas are easily digestible and do not cause discomfort or gas in babies. However, they do have distinct tastes that parents need to be aware of before making their selection.
Alimentum is a classic baby formula with a sweet taste that babies generally seem to enjoy. It has a smooth texture and easy mix-ability, so it won’t irritate delicate stomachs. The added DHA and ARA fatty acids provide essential nutrients for growth and development.
Nutramigen on the other hand has a more neutral flavor that is both milder and less sweet than Alimentum. This formula features an easy-to-digest blend of protein, carbohydrates, and fat alongside long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that may help support brain function in young babies.
It is suitable for some infants with lactose intolerance as well as those who cannot tolerate cow’s milk proteins or soya milk but may still find it too difficult to digest other types of milk formulas such as the more fatty blends found in Alimentum or Nutriprem 2.
FAQs
Can Alimentum or Nutramigen be used for babies without food allergies?
Yes, they can be used for babies without food allergies. However, it is recommended to use standard infant formula unless your baby has a specific allergy or need for specialized formula.
How long can Alimentum or Nutramigen be stored after opening?
Once opened, they should be used within 24 hours, stored in the refrigerator, and not frozen.
Can Alimentum or Nutramigen cause constipation in babies?
Yes, both formulas can cause constipation in some babies due to the protein being extensively hydrolyzed, which can result in fewer stool movements. However, some babies may experience the opposite effect, resulting in looser stools.
Are there any side effects to using Alimentum or Nutramigen?
Some babies may experience mild side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, or gas when using them. However, these side effects are generally temporary and should subside within a few days.
Are there any precautions I should take when using Alimentum or Nutramigen?
Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with your pediatrician before using them. If your baby experiences severe symptoms or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
How do I switch from standard infant formula to Alimentum or Nutramigen?
It is recommended to slowly transition your baby from standard infant formula to Alimentum or Nutramigen over several days to minimize any digestive upset.
Can Alimentum or Nutramigen be mixed with breast milk?
Yes, they can be mixed with breast milk if necessary. However, it is recommended to consult with your pediatrician before mixing formula with breast milk.
Is Alimentum or Nutramigen available in different forms such as powder or ready-to-feed?
Yes, both of them are available in different forms such as powder and ready-to-feed, depending on your preference and convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deciding which formula is best for your baby will depend on the individual child and their needs. Some children may need a hypoallergenic formula such as Alimentum or Nutramigen to prevent reactions to common allergens in their diet. Other infants may tolerate traditional formulas better and not require any specialized nutrition.
When it comes to baby formulas, there is one universal truth: all babies require adequate nutrition and calories for proper growth and development. Both Alimentum and Nutramigen provide optimal nutrition for infants, but if your child has an allergy or intolerance, you should consult with their doctor before making any decisions about the type of baby formula that’s best for them.