Enfamil Gentlease Review 2026: Is It Right for Your Fussy Baby?
Complete guide to Enfamil's most popular formula for gas, fussiness, and crying.
Quick Verdict
Best for: Babies with gas, fussiness, and mild digestive discomfort
Not for: True milk protein allergy (use Nutramigen instead)
Key feature: Partially hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion
Price: ~$32 per 19.5oz can (~$160/month)
What is Enfamil Gentlease?
Enfamil Gentlease is a partially hydrolyzed formula designed to reduce fussiness, gas, and crying in babies within 24 hours. It's Enfamil's #1 selling formula in the "comfort" category.
Key differences from regular Enfamil:
- Proteins are partially broken down for easier digestion
- Reduced lactose (20% vs 100% in regular formula)
- Same DHA, vitamins, and minerals as regular Enfamil
Available versions:
- Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease - Premium version with MFGM + DHA
- Enfamil Gentlease - Original version (being phased out)
Enfamil Gentlease Ingredients
Protein
Partially hydrolyzed nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate
The proteins are broken into smaller pieces (but not as small as hypoallergenic formulas). This makes them easier to digest for sensitive tummies.
Carbohydrates
Corn syrup solids (80%) + Lactose (20%)
The reduced lactose helps babies who have trouble digesting milk sugar. Note: This is NOT lactose-free formula.
Fat
Palm olein, coconut oil, soy oil, high oleic sunflower oil
Contains palm oil - some parents prefer palm-oil-free options
Brain-Building Nutrients
- DHA - 17mg per 5oz serving
- MFGM (NeuroPro version) - Milk fat globule membrane for brain development
- Choline - Important for memory and learning
Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease vs Regular Gentlease
| Feature | NeuroPro Gentlease | Original Gentlease |
|---|---|---|
| MFGM | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| DHA Amount | Higher | Standard |
| Price | ~$32/19.5oz | ~$28/19.5oz |
| Availability | Widely available | Being phased out |
Recommendation: Go with NeuroPro Gentlease for the brain-building benefits.
When to Use Enfamil Gentlease
✅ Good candidates for Gentlease:
- Baby is fussy or irritable, especially after feeding
- Excessive gas (grunting, straining, pulling legs up)
- Mild spit-up (not severe reflux)
- Crying more than 3 hours per day
- Difficulty with regular formula but no allergy symptoms
❌ When Gentlease is NOT enough:
- Blood in stool → Need hypoallergenic formula
- Severe eczema → May indicate milk allergy
- Projectile vomiting → See doctor immediately
- Failure to gain weight → Need medical evaluation
- Hives or rash → May need amino acid formula
Enfamil Gentlease vs Similac Sensitive
| Feature | Enfamil Gentlease | Similac Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Type | Partially hydrolyzed | Milk protein isolate (intact) |
| Lactose | Reduced (20%) | Very low (2%) |
| Palm Oil | Yes | No (OptiGRO blend) |
| MFGM | Yes (NeuroPro) | No |
| Best For | General fussiness/gas | Lactose sensitivity specifically |
| Price | ~$32/19.5oz | ~$30/20.1oz |
Bottom line: Choose Gentlease for general fussiness. Choose Similac Sensitive if you specifically suspect lactose is the issue.
How Long Until Gentlease Works?
Enfamil claims improvement in 24 hours, but realistic expectations:
- Gas/fussiness: 1-3 days
- Crying episodes: 3-5 days
- Stool changes: 3-7 days
- Overall comfort: 1-2 weeks
Tip: Give it at least 1-2 weeks before deciding if it's working. Don't switch formulas too quickly.
Enfamil Gentlease Side Effects
Some babies may experience:
- Green or darker stools - Normal with hydrolyzed proteins
- Initial gas - Can happen during transition (resolves in days)
- Constipation - Less common, but possible
- Different smell - Formula smells different than regular
Where to Buy & Price Comparison
| Retailer | 19.5oz Price | Per Ounce |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon (Subscribe) | $29.99 | $1.54 |
| Target | $31.99 | $1.64 |
| Walmart | $30.98 | $1.59 |
| Costco (48oz) | $49.99 | $1.04 |
Best deal: Costco 48oz tub if you have a membership
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Enfamil Gentlease hypoallergenic?
No. Gentlease is partially hydrolyzed, which helps with digestion but is NOT suitable for babies with confirmed milk protein allergy. For allergies, use Nutramigen or Alimentum.
Can I mix Gentlease with breast milk?
Yes, you can supplement breastfeeding with Gentlease. Mix them in the same bottle if needed.
Is Gentlease WIC approved?
Yes, Enfamil Gentlease is covered by WIC in states that have Enfamil as their contract brand.
What's the generic alternative to Gentlease?
Store brands like Parent's Choice Gentle and Up&Up Gentle offer similar formulations at 30-40% lower cost.