Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cod vs Flaxseed: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Flaxseed is generally healthier

Flaxseed comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (18g vs 17g), more fiber (27g vs 0g), less sodium (30mg vs 77mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cod

82 kcal

More Protein

Flaxseed

18g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Cod

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cod
82
Flaxseed
534
Proteinper 100g
Cod
17g
Flaxseed
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cod
0g
Flaxseed
29g
Fatper 100g
Cod
0.7g
Flaxseed
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCodFlaxseedDifference
Calories82kcal534kcal-452.0kcal
Protein17g18g-1.0g
Carbohydrates0g29g-29.0g
Fat0.7g42g-41.3g
Fiber0g27g-27.0g
Sugar0g1.6g-1.6g
Sodium77mg30mg+47.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cod

Per 100g:82 calories
Per cup (150g):123 calories
Per serving (85g):70 calories

Flaxseed

Per 100g:534 calories
Per cup (150g):801 calories
Per serving (85g):454 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cod

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinLow-CaloriePaleoLow-Sodium

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cod

  • Lower in calories (82 vs 534)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 29g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Cod nutrition →

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 17g)
  • More fiber (27g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (30mg vs 77mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

Cod vs Flaxseed: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 82 for Cod, a difference of 452 calories. On the protein front, Flaxseed delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 17g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Cod and Flaxseed tell different nutritional stories. Cod provides 0g of carbohydrates, 0.7g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Flaxseed contains 29g carbs, 42g fat, and 27g fiber. The higher fiber content in Flaxseed supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cod contains 0g while Flaxseed has 1.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cod is the lower-calorie choice at 82 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Flaxseed provides more protein (18g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Flaxseed offers more fiber (27g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Cod or Flaxseed?

Flaxseed has more calories with 534 kcal per 100g, compared to Cod with 82 kcal. That's a difference of 452 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cod healthier than Flaxseed?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Flaxseed is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Flaxseed has 534 calories, 18g protein, and 27g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cod and Flaxseed?

Flaxseed has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Cod with 17g. Flaxseed provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cod or Flaxseed?

For weight loss, Cod is the better choice with only 82 calories per 100g compared to 534 calories in Flaxseed. Flaxseed also offers 27g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cod or Flaxseed have fewer carbs?

Cod has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cod is the better option with 29.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.