USDA-derived comparison

Chia Seeds vs Flaxseed (Linseed)

Chia Seeds leads for Calcium, Iron and Selenium; Flaxseed (Linseed) answers with Vitamin B1, Folate and Vitamin B6.

Who each is for: Choose chia Seeds for calcium and iron. Choose flaxseed (Linseed) for vitamin B1 and folate.

Reviewed 20 July 2026. Generic food data per 100g; brands and preparation vary.

Chia Seeds

Typical serving: 2 tbsps (24g)

41/100

More calciumMore ironMore seleniumMore vitamin B3
Full Chia Seeds page

Flaxseed (Linseed)

Typical serving: 2 tbsp (14g)

38/100

More vitamin B1More folateMore vitamin B6More potassium
Full Flaxseed (Linseed) page

Side by side, per 100g

The stronger number is highlighted, honestly: higher wins for aim-for nutrients, lower wins for stay-under ones like saturated fat and sodium.

NutrientChia SeedsFlaxseed (Linseed)
Calories486 kcal534 kcal
Protein17 g18 g
Carbs42 g29 g
Fat31 g42 g
Fiber34 g27 g
Sat fat3 g4 g
Sodium16 mg30 mg
Potassium407 mg813 mg
Calcium631 mg255 mg
Iron7.7 mg5.7 mg
Magnesium335 mg392 mg
Zinc4.6 mg4.3 mg
Vitamin C2 mg1 mg
Vitamin D0 µg0 µg
Vitamin B120 µg0 µg
Folate49 µg87 µg

Servings differ: 2 tbsps of chia seeds is about 24g, 2 tbsp of flaxseed (linseed) about 14g. Scale accordingly before deciding anything on the 100g basis alone.

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