Similac For Constipation – The Truth About Similac and Baby Bowels

By Maria Wilcox •  Updated: 09/15/22 •  8 min read
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Does Similac for constipation work? It can! Some moms and dads find that switching to Similac formula eases their baby’s constipation issues. Others find that even after using Similac for a long time, their baby suddenly has unexplained bouts of blocked bowels. So, what gives? Does Similac cause constipation or are there issues to blame? Read on to find out more about Similac for constipation in babies. 

similac for constipation

Is Similac Good For Constipation?

Whether or not Similac is good for constipation will totally depend on your baby. There are many babies that respond better to certain types of formula than others. Still others will respond much better to breast milk than they will formula. 

If you are formula feeding your baby and notice that he or she begins having issues with constipation, Similac may or may not help. If your baby is already on Similac, it may be that you need to switch to another type of Similac formula. It may also be that you need to switch brands completely. 

So, which brand of Similac formula is best for constipation? We’ll get to that in a bit! Before we do, however, we’d like to inform you of other reasons your baby could be experiencing bowel blockage. 

These include:

  • Dehydration
  • Milk Allergy
  • Transitioning From Breastmilk to Formula
  • Illness
  • Stress
  • Physical Ailment 
  • Switching Formula

Which Similac Milk Is Good For Constipation?

Wondering what’s the best Similac formula for constipation? That’ll depend on your baby’s needs.

In general, we find that the Similac Advance formula works best for issues such as constipation. We also have found many parents to second this opinion based on personal experiences. But you’ve also got other Similac options if Similac Advance appears too pricey for you. Let’s dig into what those options are now! 

What Similac Formula Is Good For Constipation?

Let’s take a glance at your Similac options for baby constipation. 

Best Similac Formula for Constipation: Similac Advance For Constipation

As already mentioned, Similac Advance is awesome for treating constipation. In fact, Similac Advance is often recommended by doctors for issues like these. 

The formula contains oligosaccharides which are found in breast milk and have multiple health benefits for babies. It has no palm olein oil which is often found to harden stools in babies. However, because the formula is quite expensive when compared to other Similac formulas, you may wish to try the formula for only a week. This will give you time to see how well it works before stocking up on it. 

Similac Advance comes in both liquid and powder form, though many moms and dads tout the liquid version as being the most effective. Give either one a go to see what you think! 

Similac Total Comfort For Constipation

Another one of the best Similac formulas for gas and constipation is Similac Total Comfort. This gentle formula was specifically designed to assist babies who may experience tummy issues due to constipation or gas. It comes fortified with 2′-FL and nucleotides which are frequently found in human breast milk. Both of these increase immune system support. 

Similac Total Comfort Infant Formula, Imported, Easy-to-Digest Baby Formula Powder, Non-GMO, 820 g (28.9 oz) Can
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Similac Alimentum For Constipation

Though Similac Alimentum is specifically formulated to help babies with food allergies and colic, you may find this formula to be helpful for constipation as well. This is because it may be that it is an allergy to something within your babies’ previous formula making them constipated. Therefore, if you suspect this to be the case, you may consider giving Similac Alimentum a try. 

Note: Be sure to only switch your baby’s infant formula if advised by a doctor. Only your doctor can know for sure the underlying causes for which your baby may have constipation. If you change your baby’s formula too frequently it may cause more harm than good. Therefore, you should allow your doctor to assess the situation before making a snap judgment.  

Similac Alimentum with 2'-FL HMO Hypoallergenic Infant Formula, for Food Allergies and Colic, Suitable for Lactose Sensitivity, Ready-to-Feed Baby Formula, 32-oz Bottle (Case of 6)
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Can I Use Similac Sensitive For Constipation?

Is Similac Sensitive good for constipation? It can be. But depending on what it is that is causing your baby issues, you may not find Similac Sensitive to be much help. 

Similac Sensitive is formulated to be easier to digest while also helping with fussiness and gas So, why would Similac Sensitive not be great for all constipated babies? Unlike other Similac varieties, Similac Sensitive still contains casein which is a protein found in cow’s milk that some babies are sensitive to. If, however, your baby isn’t sensitive to casein, Similac Sensitive might be a great pick to soothe constipation in your little one. 

Wondering about Similac Pro Sensitive for constipation? It works just as well if not better as the original. The formula is almost identical to that of Similac Sensitive, however, Similac Pro Sensitive contains the oligosaccharides that we discussed earlier. It also is certified non-GMO.

Similac Sensitive vs Total Comfort For Constipation

Because of the ingredient makeup of Similac Sensitive, you may find that Similac Total Comfort is the best overall choice for constipation caused by casein sensitivities. However, if your child isn’t sensitive to casein then Similac Sensitive may work for you. This is because Similac Total Comfort comes without casein proteins while Similac Sensitive still contains casein. 

Both contain whey, so if you aren’t sure if your baby is sensitive to whey it is best to consult your doctor for advice. 

similac for constipation

Other Types of Similac Used For Constipation

There are some other types of Similac formula for constipation available in countries outside of the US that may go by various names. If you happen to be traveling abroad or come across the following Similac types online, you may find them to work well for constipation as well. 

These include: 

  • Similac Smooth For Constipation
  • Similac Tummicare For Constipation
  • Similac Soothe For Constipation

Similac For Constipation? Maybe!

In some cases, you may find that switching your baby over to Similac may help ease constipation issues. But in some cases, it may make it worse. If your baby is already using Similac but is experiencing constipation, first check to see if other causes are to blame. 

If you suspect that it is the formula upsetting your baby’s tummy, talk to a doctor before making any changes to his or her diet. You may wish to try Similac Advance if your doctor gives you the thumbs up to see if it helps clear things up. Otherwise, your doctor will be able to give you tailored advice for the next steps in treating your baby’s constipation issues. 

Until next time! 

FAQs

Does Similac make babies constipated?

Similac may or may not help clear up your baby’s constipation issues. It all depends on the root cause of the constipation. 

Does Similac for Spit Up cause constipation? 

There appear to be many parents reporting issues with constipation after trying Similac for Spit Up. If your baby already struggles with constipation issues, we don’t recommend trying Similac for Spit Up.

Similac or Enfamil for constipation?

Some parents love Similac for constipation, while others loathe it. Some have reported making the switch to Enfamil and have had no problems since. It will really depend on your baby and his or her specific needs. 

Is Similac Pro Advance Good for Constipation?

It can be! In fact, it is one of the best Similac types to try to clear up constipation. Give it a try and see what you think. 

Does Similac cause constipation for breastfed babies?

Know that making a switch from breastmilk to formula can be hard on a baby’s tummy. Take it easy and introduce the formula slowly. If you notice your baby having gas and fussiness with the formula, speak with your doctor about your options before switching the baby to another type of formula. 

Maria Wilcox

Former instructor with an M.A. in Education turned grateful stay-at-home mama to one, I look to share helpful insights related to babies, toddlers, kids, and families for the benefit of real people just like you.

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