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Gerber Gentle vs Soothe: Which Baby Formula is Best?

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe: Which Baby Formula is Best?
Latest posts by Keith Lindner (see all)

Gerber is a well-known brand that produces and sells four different variations of baby formula. Each type targets a specific dietary need or nutrition stage. Three of the Gerber formulas are based on lactose while the fourth option is soy-based.

In today’s comparative review, I will discuss two of the manufacturer’s formulas: Gentle and Soothe.

The first one was created for infants who have normal digestion. It comes with a blend of prebiotics, probiotics, ARA, and DHA. This mix resembles the compounds found in breast milk.

Unlike Gentle, which may or may not cause gassiness or other mild tummy issues, Gerber Soothe is more suitable for babies who deal with colic and fussiness. But let’s find out more about these two infant formulas, below.

Bottom Line Up Front Summary: We personally opted to start with Gerber Gentle to deal with mild gassiness here. Gerber Soothe is appropriate if – after trying Gentle – you baby still experiences colic and discomfort. 

Main Differences Between Gerber Gentle vs Soothe

The main differences between Gerber Gentle vs Soothe are:

  • Gerber Gentle is more of a standard formula, whereas Gerber Soothe targets babies with colic and digestive issues
  • Gerber Gentle tastes more like regular milk because it has proteins that are less broken down, whereas Gerber Soothe is easier to digest due to its fine and tiny proteins
  • Gerber Gentle comes with a tad higher carb content, whereas Gerber Soothe formula contains slightly fewer carbs
  • Gerber Gentle has a lower quantity of calcium, whereas Gerber Soothe formula that’s designed for upset tummies contains more calcium for stronger bones
  • Gerber Gentle targets protein-sensitive babies, whereas Gerber Soothe formula aims to help lactose-intolerant infants
  • Gerber Gentle variety contains a normal amount of lactose, whereas Gerber Soothe contains a reduced amount of lactose
  • Gerber Gentle formula features the B. Lactis probiotic, whereas Gerber Soothe alternative provides the L. reuteri probiotic
Our Pick
Gerber Good Start Infant Formula Gentle (HMO) Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula | Walmart
$29.06

Gerber Good Start is the best choice because it's made of non-GMO ingredients, it's easy to digest and provides the daily dose of iron and probiotics babies should ingest.

Check Price Buy at Target
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – What Are They?

Gerber Gentle

gerber gentle

This Gerber formula contains more intact proteins and it is good for your baby’s everyday nutritional needs. It works best for infants who don’t suffer from colic or gassiness. Its compounds mimic breast milk and they support the baby’s healthy overall development.

Unlike Gerber Gentle, many other formulas out there lack a prebiotic content. This, along with other features, makes Gerber Gentle stand out. The formula contains whey-derived protein which is only partially hydrolyzed. This characteristic prolongs the bioavailability of the formula’s nutrients.

Gerber Gentle could be your everyday infant formula as long as your little one has a normal digestive system.

Our Pick
Gerber Good Start Infant Formula Gentle (HMO) Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula | Walmart
$29.06

Gerber Good Start is the best choice because it's made of non-GMO ingredients, it's easy to digest and provides the daily dose of iron and probiotics babies should ingest.

Check Price Buy at Target
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Has This Product Been Recalled?

Yes. The Gerber Gentle has been recalled in 2012 because of odor complaints.

Gerber Soothe

gerber good start

By comparison, the Gerber Soothe formula features proteins that are finely broken-down. It is created for infants with lower lactose tolerance. Due to its small proteins, this formula is easier to digest. Therefore, your baby’s tiny body will absorb the product’s nutrients a lot quicker and effortlessly, especially if we’re talking about gastric problems or other lactose-related sensitivities.

Another important aspect of the Gerber Soothe formula is its added special probiotic content that is supposed to lower fussiness and crying. Gerber Gentle vs Soothe would translate into “daily feeding vs. milder and more specialized formula.”

According to the manufacturer, Gerber Soothe is also good for prematurely-born babies who have a weaker digestive system.

Has This Product Been Recalled?

No. Gerber Soothe has not been recalled so far.

Gerber Good Start SoothePro Baby Formula Powder | Amazon

Soothing Nutrition: Modeled after the complete nutrition and gentleness of breastmilk, this formula offers nutrition for babies up to 12 months experiencing colic, excessive crying, fussiness and gas.

Buy at Amazon
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Ingredient Profile

Gerber Gentle

Here are the main ingredients that this formula is made from:

  • Whey protein concentrate;
  • Corn maltodextrin;
  • Vegetable oils – sourced from coconut, palm, sunflower, soy, and safflower;
  • Lactose;
  • Lactis probiotic;
  • 2’-FL HMO prebiotic;
  • Vitamins – A, B1, D, E, K, C, etc.;
  • Minerals – calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, etc.

The minerals and vitamins together with the blend of probiotics and prebiotics support a healthy digestive system as well as a strong immunity.

Gerber Soothe

The Gerber Soothe alternative is a great option that offers immune support and promotes eye and brain development. It is easier to digest due to the company’s so-called Comfort Proteins. Many parents said that this was their lifesaver that managed to calm down their fussy babies.

Without further ado, here are the main compounds that are included in this formula:

  • Milk whey protein concentrate
  • Corn maltodextrin
  • DHA
  • Probiotics – L. reuteri
  • Linoleic acid
  • Vegetable oils sourced from coconut, soy, palm, and safflower
  • Vitamins – A, B6, B1, B2, C, D, E, K, etc.
  • Minerals – calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, etc

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Nutritional Value

Gerber Gentle Nutritional Information – per one serving (5 fluid ounces)

Calories100
Protein2.2 g
Carbohydrates11.6 g
Fat5.1 g
Linoleic acid900 mg
Water134 g
Folic acid15 mcg
Calcium67 mg

Gerber Soothe Nutritional Information – per one serving (5 fluid ounces)

Calories100
Protein2.2 g
Carbohydrates11.2 g
Fat5.1 g
Linoleic acid900 mg
Water131 g
Folic acid15 mcg
Calcium72 mg

baby-formula-1546523828gyQ

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Pros and Cons

Gerber Gentle Advantages

  • Contains intact proteins which give it a better flavor;
  • You can purchase it in larger bulk options;
  • Comes with both probiotics and prebiotics which makes it more similar to breast milk;
  • The formula’s carb content is derived mainly from lactose.

Gerber Gentle Disadvantages

  • It might sometimes lead to gas problems;
  • Compared to Gerber Soothe, this formula is more expensive.

Gerber Soothe Advantages

  • This formula is way better for highly sensitive tummies;
  • It is more affordable than Gerber Gentle;
  • The formula provides many of the health benefits that breast milk has;
  • It seems to lower fussiness and crying in small babies.

Gerber Soothe Disadvantages

  • Its flavor is less good than the one of Gerber Gentle;
  • It might not work the same for all colicky babies;
  • You cannot prepare this formula using hot water because it can kill its healthy probiotic bacteria;
  • It is made to lower gas which, in some situations, may lead to constipation.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Taste & Smell

In terms of both taste and smell, Gerber Gentle is a lot more similar to regular milk because of its more intact proteins. On the other hand, Gerber Soothe had to sacrifice some flavor aspects in order to create an easily-digestible formula.

A few parents said that the taste of the Gerber Gentle formula might be a tad metallic. Others think that the smell is ok but it’s also a little fishy.  The odor isn’t strong though.

Due to its specific ingredients, Gerber Soothe appears to have a different taste and a unique odor. So, it is quite different than Gerber Gentle. According to most parents, this formula features a gentle smell and a mild taste that’ easily accepted by infants.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Price

Both these formulas have reasonable prices. Compared to other brands, Gerber sells larger containers and high-quality products. So, they offer good value for the price. Gerber Gentle usually costs more by weight while Gerber Soothe has a slightly higher price tag when you consider the cost per ounce. However, the company provides plenty of bulk-purchasing options.

Some vendors offer free shipping. Sometimes, you may even find rebate checks that you can use to buy these baby formulas. Bottom line, the small price difference between the two products comes from the fact that Gerber Soothe contains different ingredients and it is a niche product.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Let’s Recap

white and clear feeding bottle, baby, infant, pacifier, food, HD wallpaper

Gerber Gentle works well for babies who have sensitive tummies. It might cause occasional constipation but contains good-quality ingredients, it is easily available, and it comes at an accessible price.

Gerber Soothe contains breakdown proteins that help your baby’s digestion. It can lower fussiness and gassiness and it is very gentle on your infant’s tummy. It is also an affordable formula. As a downside, you cannot prepare it using hot water because of its probiotic content. Also, it is not made to treat allergies.

Our Pick
Gerber Good Start Infant Formula Gentle (HMO) Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula | Walmart
$29.06

Gerber Good Start is the best choice because it's made of non-GMO ingredients, it's easy to digest and provides the daily dose of iron and probiotics babies should ingest.

Check Price Buy at Target
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Gerber Gentle vs Soothe – Main Alternatives

Both Gerber Gentle and Gerber Soothe are amazing options but if you want to check out some other options as well, I have created a short list of some of the other alternatives available out there that also provide many great benefits for your little one:

  • Similac Pro Sensitive infant formula – this product was specially created to reduce gassiness and fussiness in babies who deal with upset tummies or even colic. It tastes very good and it is an affordable baby formula;
Our Top Choice
Similac Pro Sensitive | Amazon

The Similac Pro Sensitive formula is out top choice because it's made of non-GMO ingredients, it's safe to be consumed by infants from their first day and because it boosts the immune system.

Buy at Amazon Buy at Instacart
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
  • Similac Advance – this formula’s components help your baby’s brain development. It’s a nutritious formula that’s very similar to breast milk. Similac Advance powder dissolves quickly and effortlessly but its price tag is a tad high;
  • Earth’s Best Sensitive – it is an organic infant formula that prevents spit-ups and excessive gas. It is pretty affordable and the company also markets an iron-fortified version that you could try;
  • Baby’s Only non-GMO formula – this formula is great for toddlers who experience excessive gas. It is a gluten-free product and it tastes good while also featuring a pleasant smell.
Baby's Only Toddler Formula | Amazon
$109.94 ($1.44 / Ounce)

Baby's Only Toddler Formula provides the appropriate amount of protein, essential fats abundant in breast milk, vitamins, and carbohydrates needed to fuel growth to ensure every child gets the best possible start.

Buy at Amazon
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
02/22/2024 04:53 pm GMT

How Do You Purchase the Right Formula That Suits Your Baby’s Needs?

Being a parent is rewarding but also very challenging. Everything seems new and complicated, even choosing the best formula that suits your baby’s needs. The fact that there are so many options on the market doesn’t make this decision easier. Here are some things you should keep in mind when trying to decide which infant formula you should pick:

  • Ingredients – the ideal formula should have non-GMO constituents and the right amount of minerals, vitamins, micro and macronutrients, protein, fats, etc.;
  • Price – either we like it or not, price plays a major role in many of our purchasing decisions. All parents want to buy good-quality products for their children without spending too much money. Choose a formula that provides all the nutrients your infant needs, one that doesn’t break the bank;
  • Availability – a good and healthy baby formula should also be easily accessible. You shouldn’t go too far to find it. Otherwise, purchasing it will become a burden;
  • Iron content – a good formula should contain the right amount of iron to resemble breast milk which is rich in this specific mineral. The formula should be iron-fortified because this compound helps your baby’s healthy development;
  • Growth stage – always make sure to pick the right formula that suits your infant’s development phase and age. Each stage requires different essential nutrients;
  • Generic formula vs. name brand – most parents opt for branded formulas because they trust these companies more. Either way, all infant products must meet the FDA’s quality requirements and regulations. Read the labels, compare the ingredients, and choose wisely. Honestly, branded formulas come with a higher price but also more reliability.

What Are the Main Ingredients that a Good Baby Formula Should Contain?

All formulas should contain the following main ingredients that support your baby’s proper development:

  • Protein that’s easily digestible
  • Lactose as the formula’s main carb
  • Healthy fat that resembles the one that’s found in breast milk
  • A proper whey-to-casein ratio
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Probiotics and/or prebiotics
  • Minerals and vitamins

Ideally, you should avoid buying formulas that contain too much sugar, too many carbs, faux iron, and preservatives.

What Are the Main Baby Formula Types?

Feeding Bottle Shallow Focus Photography, adult, baby, blur, bonding, HD wallpaper

There are many types of baby formulas on the market. Based on their form, there are three categories of infant formula:

  • Ready-to-use – comes premixed and it is the most expensive type;
  • Powder – this is the most commonly-met and most affordable formula. Both Gerber Gentle and Gerber Soothe are powdered formulas;
  • Liquid concentrate – you must refrigerate this formula and, to prepare it, you need to combine the concentrate with the same amount of water.

Based on the type of protein they contain, there are the following types of baby formulas:

  • Cow milk protein-based – most babies accept this kind of formula, except those who are lactose-intolerant;
  • Soy-based – if you don’t want to feed your infant with animal protein or your little one is allergic to cow milk, then this could be the right formula for you. However, some infants are also allergic to soy, so be aware of that;
  • Protein hydrolysate – in this case, the protein has been hydrolyzed or broken down, either partially or extensively. This option is great for infants who have allergies to both cow and soy protein.

FAQs

Does Gerber Soothe help with constipation?

Gerber Gentle doesn’t seem to cause issues like constipation. On the other hand, Gerber Soothe may lead to constipation because its content is created to lower gas and colic. So, this formula might not work the same for all colicky babies out there. You can still give it a try, though, and see how well your little one adjusts to this product.

What are the symptoms of a colicky baby?

Nobody seems to actually know the exact reasons that could be directly linked to colic. Some say that infants who have more sensitive guts are more likely to deal with this specific issue. Others say that it could be related to the mother’s diet. Finally, lactose intolerance could be another reason.

Either way, here are some of the most common colic symptoms that you should be aware of:
• Recurring episodes of intense crying that occur mostly in the evening;
• Gassy and tight tummy;
• Red flushed face;
• Arched backs and clenched fists.

Final Thoughts on Gerber Soothe vs Gentle

Both Gerber Gentle and Soothe are very good formula options. They are pretty similar and manufactured by a reputable company. However, there are a few things that differentiate one formula from the other: their ingredients and a slightly different price.

It is totally understandable that you want to be well prepared for your child’s arrival. Do your research but also go easy on yourself. Don’t buy too much formula before giving birth because it is very hard to predict the exact type of formula that your little one will accept.

Once you discover what works best, you can shift to purchasing in bulk.

Bottom Line: We personally opted to start with Gerber Gentle to deal with mild gassiness here. Gerber Soothe is appropriate if – after trying Gentle – you baby still experiences colic and discomfort. 

Our Pick
Gerber Good Start Infant Formula Gentle (HMO) Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula | Walmart
$29.06

Gerber Good Start is the best choice because it's made of non-GMO ingredients, it's easy to digest and provides the daily dose of iron and probiotics babies should ingest.

Check Price Buy at Target
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

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