A lot of moms I talk to are confused about the difference between Pedialyte and Pediasure. While these are two very different products, each of them works for two different reasons.
What is the difference between Pedialyte and Pediasure?
While these two products are both made by Abbott, they are very different in terms of how they apply to the health and wellness of your baby.
- Pedialyte is a drink that is used for dehydration in babies and children, especially after vomiting or diarrhea.
- Pediasure is a nutritional drink that aims to help children grow by providing vitamins and protein.
Both Pedialyte vs Pediasure come in a variety of flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and an assortment of fruit flavors. Pediasure is something that you would typically have a a part of your child’s diet. On the other hand, Pedialyte is something that is more akin to medicine that you’d give your child when they’re sick.
Pediasure Products
- Pediasure Grow & Gain – comes in both a powder and premade drink, aims to help kids grow
- Pediasure Grow & Gain with Fiber – comes in premade drink only; same formula as original Grow & Gain, but adds fiber
- Pediasure Sidekicks – comes in premade drink only, lower calorie and higher protein mix
Pedialyte Products
- Classic – original formula that aims to replace sugar and electrolytes and restore nutritional balance after dehydration
- Advanced Care – similar formula as classic, but with added prebiotics
- Advanced Care Plus – same formula as Advanced care, but with added 33% electrolytes
- Freezer Pops – similar formula as classic Pedialyte, but in freezer popsicle form
What is the age range for Pedialyte and Pediasure?
Neither Pedialyte vs Pediasure are designed for infants. There are recommended ages for both products, but you should talk to your pediatrician or doctor before giving either product to infants or young babies.
- Pediasure – 2 years old – 13 years old
- Pedialyte – 6 weeks old (please talk to your doctor if giving to infants) – adults
Pedialyte is often used by adults that compete in endurance events or are dehydrated, so it is safe for just about anyone. Pediasure is a little more complex, with their mix of vitamins, minerals, and protein, so it is designed for toddlers and older kids who fall a little behind on the growth chart.
What is nutritional information of Pedialyte and Pediasure?
All Pedialyte and Pediasure drinks and mixers are kosher and gluten-free. Pediasure is suitable for lactose intolerant children, but Pedialyte does contain milk product.
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Pediasure Grow & Gain
- Serving Size: 8 oz.
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 7g
- Total Fat: 9g
- Fiber: <1g
- Vitamins and Minerals: 25
- DHA Omega-3: 32mg
-
Pediasure Grow & Gain with Fiber
- Serving Size: 8 oz.
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 7g
- Total Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamins and Minerals: 25
- DHA Omega-3: 32mg
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Pediasure Sidekicks
- Serving Size: 12 oz.
- Calories: 25
- Protein: 10g
- Total Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamins and Minerals: 25
- DHA Omega-3: —
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Pedialyte Advanced Care
- Serving Size: 12 oz.
- Calories: 25
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
-
Pedialyte Advanced Care Plus
- Serving Size: 12 oz.
- Calories: 25
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
-
Pedialyte Classic
- Serving Size: 12 oz.
- Calories: 35
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugar: 9g
-
Pedialyte Freezer Pops
- Serving Size: 2 pops
- Calories: 15
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
