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

Flaxseed vs Brown Rice: 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?

Brown Rice is generally healthier

Brown Rice comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (111 vs 534), less sugar (0g vs 1.6g), less sodium (5mg vs 30mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Brown Rice

111 kcal

More Protein

Flaxseed

18g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Brown Rice

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Flaxseed
534
Brown Rice
111
Proteinper 100g
Flaxseed
18g
Brown Rice
2.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Flaxseed
29g
Brown Rice
23g
Fatper 100g
Flaxseed
42g
Brown Rice
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFlaxseedBrown RiceDifference
Calories534kcal111kcal+423.0kcal
Protein18g2.6g+15.4g
Carbohydrates29g23g+6.0g
Fat42g0.9g+41.1g
Fiber27g1.8g+25.2g
Sugar1.6g0g+1.6g
Sodium30mg5mg+25.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Flaxseed

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

Brown Rice

Per 100g:111 calories
Per cup (150g):167 calories
Per serving (85g):94 calories

Diet Compatibility

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Brown Rice

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 2.6g)
  • More fiber (27g vs 1.8g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

When to Choose Brown Rice

  • Lower in calories (111 vs 534)
  • Lower in carbs (23g vs 29g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.6g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 30mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Brown Rice nutrition →

Flaxseed vs Brown Rice: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 111 for Brown Rice, a difference of 423 calories. On the protein front, Flaxseed delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 2.6g, 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 Flaxseed and Brown Rice tell different nutritional stories. Flaxseed provides 29g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 27g of fiber per 100g, while Brown Rice contains 23g carbs, 0.9g fat, and 1.8g 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: Flaxseed contains 1.6g while Brown Rice has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Brown Rice is the lower-calorie choice at 111 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, Flaxseed or Brown Rice?

Flaxseed has more calories with 534 kcal per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 111 kcal. That's a difference of 423 calories per 100g serving.

Is Flaxseed healthier than Brown Rice?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Brown Rice is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Brown Rice has 111 calories, 2.6g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Flaxseed and Brown Rice?

Flaxseed has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 2.6g. Flaxseed provides 15.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Flaxseed or Brown Rice?

For weight loss, Brown Rice is the better choice with only 111 calories per 100g compared to 534 calories in Flaxseed. Flaxseed also offers 27g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Flaxseed or Brown Rice have fewer carbs?

Brown Rice has fewer carbs with 23g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Brown Rice is the better option with 6.0g 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.