Key Differences:
The Best One?
Choosing the most suitable amino acid formula, whether it’s Puramino or Alfamino, requires careful consideration of individual circumstances and specific needs. Both formulae possess almost the same characteristics and ingredients. But, each one has extra unique strengths and factors that should be taken into account.
Puramino shows better results for reflux, gas, and colic whereas Alfamino is great for babies who need to gain weight.
Mom’s Reviews Comparison:
According to mom’s reviews, both formulas are a good choice for milk, soy, and lactose intolerant babies because of their protein source (amino acids).
Alfamino helps babies gain weight quickly because it contains a type of fat called Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which make up 43% of the fat in the formula. Additionally, compared to other amino acid formulas, Alfamino has a taste that is easier for babies to tolerate and doesn’t have a strong smell.
On the other hand, Puramino shows good results for reflux, gas, and colic.
Ingredients Comparison:
Alfamino and PurAmino are special formulas made for babies who have certain medical conditions like allergies to cow’s milk or soy. They are both amino acid-based formulas, which means they contain special proteins that are easier for these babies to digest. Although they have many similarities, there are some differences in the ingredients they use:
Protein Source:
Alfamino and Alfamino both use Free Amino Acids as their source of protein. These formulas break down the proteins into smaller parts called amino acids. This makes them very hypoallergenic, which means they are safe for babies who have severe allergies or intolerances to whole proteins or even partially broken-down proteins because the immune system doesn’t detect these amino acids.
Carbohydrate Source:
Both formulas use corn syrup solids as the main source of simple carbohydrates to give babies energy. Corn syrup is a good choice for amino acid formulas because babies can easily digest and absorb it.
But, Alfamino adds potato starch to provide complex carbohydrates that babies can easily digest and absorb. Potato starch also helps thicken the formula, making it feel smoother and thicker.
Fat Source:
Alfamino and Puramino both use high oleic sunflower and soy oil which is a little bit confusing because an amino acid formula should be dairy and soy-free. Anyway, this thing doesn’t make a problem for babies. However, if you are searching for a soy-free amino acid formula try Neocate, I have made a comparison between Alfamino and Neocate and between Puramino and Neocate if you want to check.
We found among fat sources the Medium Chain Triglycerides that require less effort from the digestive system, making them a preferred choice for infants with digestive sensitivities or difficulties. Also, they are quickly metabolized by the body, providing a readily available source of energy.
All that will promote weight gain, especially for babies with conditions that may cause growth challenges or require additional calorie intake.
43% of Alfamino’s fat sources are from MCT whereas 33% of Puramino’s fat sources are from MCT.
Nutrition Comparison:
Nutrients and Vitamins:
The table below shows a full comparison between Puramino and Alfamino in terms of nutrients and vitamins:
In terms of nutrients, both formulas have an equal protein content. However, Puramino contains a higher amount of fat compared to Alfamino. On the other hand, Alfamino has a higher carbohydrate level.
When it comes to vitamins, Alfamino has been enriched more than Puramino, especially for vitamins B1, B2, B6, Niacin, and Pantothenic acid.
However, Puramino has a high level of Inositol which plays a beneficial role in amino acid baby formulas like helping cells communicate and supporting brain development. Inositol helps also the baby’s body break down and use fats effectively.
Minerals:
In terms of minerals, Alfamino has been enriched with minerals content than Puramino as the table below shows:
Price and Size Comparison:
Amino acid formulas are way more expensive than regular formulas and that’s because of specialized manufacturing processes, rigorous testing, and quality control procedures.
Alfamino is sold in a 14.1 oz size, priced at $48.56, which comes out to approximately $3.44 per ounce. You can buy Alfamino on Amazon.
In comparison, Puramino is also available in a 14.1 oz size and costs $44.82, equivalent to approximately $3.18 per ounce. You can Puramino on Amazon.
Switching Between Alfamino and Puramino:
Switching from Alfamino to Puramino formulas is possible because they are both amino acid-based and have similar sources of protein and carbohydrates. However, to avoid any possible tummy troubles and ensure the baby gets the right nutrients, it’s recommended to introduce the new formula slowly over a few days or weeks.
