Can I Use Similac and Enfamil at the Same Time?

Using Similac and Enfamil at the same time is generally safe if you follow standard mixing procedures and use formulas with similar ingredients designed for a specific nutritional need.

Enfamil is ideal for sensitive stomachs, while Similac contains milk protein isolate, an easily digestible component that may trigger allergies.

It is important to ensure the formulas you mix have the same ingredients or are designed to meet specific nutritional needs.

What are Similac and Enfamil?

Similac and Enfamil are two popular brands designed to provide healthy nutrition for babies who are not breastfeeding or receiving breast milk exclusively. Both formulas contain carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals essential for a baby’s growth and development.

Similac

Abbott Laboratories produce Similac and is available in various formulations.

• Similac Advance
• Similac Sensitive
• Similac Pro-Advance

Similac offers specialized formulas for babies with unique needs, such as cow’s milk allergy, colic, and other digestive issues.

• Similac Alimentum– designed for babies with cow’s milk protein allergy or other food allergies
• Similac Total Comfort– for babies with digestive issues, such as colic, fussiness, or gas.
• Similac Sensitive– designed for infants with lactose sensitivity or fussiness.
• Similac Spit-Up – made for infants who frequently spit up or have reflux.
• Similac Neosure – For premature babies or babies with low birth weight.

Enfamil

Conversely, Enfamil is produced by Mead Johnson Nutrition and is also available in different formulations.

• Enfamil Infant
• Enfamil Gentlease
• Enfamil NeuroPro

Enfamil also offers specialized formulas for babies with unique needs, such as sensitive stomachs, lactose intolerance, or cow’s milk protein allergies.

• Enfamil Gentlease– designed for babies who have difficulty digesting lactose, leading to fussiness, gas, and crying.
• Enfamil Nutramigen– babies having allergies or sensitivities to cow’s milk protein.
• Enfamil Reguline– to help babies with constipation.
• Enfamil ProSobee-designed for babies who are sensitive or allergic to milk and soy.
• Enfamil A.R– formulated to reduce spit-up and reflux in babies.

Combining Similac and Enfamil Formulas: When and Why to Consider Using Both Brands?

Enfamil Infant and Similac Advance: (Infant Formulas)

• Similar oil composition: soy, high oleic safflower, and coconut oil.
• High in B vitamin-like nutrients, DHA (a fatty acid), vitamin K, and prebiotics.
• Milk-based components: lactose, whey protein, and non-fat milk.
• No added sweeteners.

Enfamil A.R. and Similac for Spit-Up: (Anti-Reflux Formulas)

• Similar vitamin and mineral combinations.
• Higher sugar content than regular milk helps calm fussy babies with reflux.
• Suitable for babies who spit up frequently.
• Both use rice starch to thicken the formula without blocking the feeding bottle nipple.

Enfamil Gentlease and Similac Pro-Sensitive: (Sensitive Tummy Formulas)

• Similar levels of vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and water.
• Designed to reduce fussiness in babies.
• Both use corn syrup solids to aid the digestion of cow’s milk.

Enfamil Nutramigen and Similac Alimentum: (Hypoallergenic Formulas)

• Suitable for babies with cow’s milk sensitivities or allergies.
• Both contain casein hydrolysate, which has smaller, digestible proteins.
• Enfamil uses corn syrup, while Similac uses corn maltodextrin.
• Both contain linoleic acid to support a healthy heart.

Enfamil Enspire and Similac Pro-Advance: (Premium Formulas)

• Both contain choline, iron, lutein, DHA, vitamin E, lactose, whey protein concentrate, and non-fat milk.
• Enfamil contains palm olein and sunflower oils with high oleic content, while Similac uses safflower and soy oils.
• Both are certified non-GMO

Enfamil vs. Similac:  Similarities & Differences

Similarities

• Enfamil and Similac offer a range of infant formulas to meet different nutritional needs and preferences.
• Both brands provide baby milk-based formulas, including lactose, whey protein, and non-fat milk.
• Both add important vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids like DHA to their formulas.
• They offer options for babies with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
• Enfamil and Similac are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and meet specific safety and nutritional standards.

Differences

• Enfamil uses palm olein oil in some of its formulas, while Similac uses soy, safflower, and coconut oil.
• Enfamil offers a broader range of specialized formulas for different health conditions like cow’s milk protein allergies, while Similac focuses more on options for sensitive stomachs and spit-up.
• Similac uses lactose and corn maltodextrin while Enfamil uses lactose and corn syrup solids as a carbohydrate source in its formulas.
• Enfamil includes a prebiotic called GOS in some of its formulas, while Similac uses a blend of prebiotics called OptiGRO.
• Similac uses natural sources of MFGM and DHA while Enfamil claims to have a patented blend of MFGM and DHA in some of its formulas.

FAQs

Why would someone use both Similac and Enfamil?

Some parents choose to use Similac and Enfamil formulas to provide their baby with various nutrients or help manage certain digestive issues.

How do I know if my baby tolerates Similac and Enfamil well when used together?

Watch for signs of digestive issues such as gas, bloating, or constipation. Monitoring your baby’s weight gain is essential, as this can indicate their getting the nutrients they need.

Can I use a microwave to prepare baby formula?

It is generally not recommended to use a microwave to prepare baby formula. Microwaving can cause uneven heating, leading to “hot spots” that can burn your baby’s mouth. Additionally, microwaving can destroy some of the nutrients in the formula.

How long does it take a baby to adjust to new formula?

When switching to a new baby formula, most infants will adapt within a week, although for some, it may take up to six weeks to fully adjust. The baby’s response to the new formula may include changes in stool, constipation, or gas.

Summary

It is possible to use both Similac and Enfamil formulas simultaneously, especially when switching between different formulas is needed due to a baby’s dietary restrictions, preferences, or other factors.

However, consulting with a pediatrician before changing a baby’s feeding routine is essential. They can provide personalized recommendations based on the baby’s needs and health status.