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

Flaxseed vs Donut: 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 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (18g vs 3g), more fiber (27g vs 1.4g), less sugar (1.6g vs 21g), less sodium (30mg vs 386mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Donut

452 kcal

More Protein

Flaxseed

18g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Flaxseed

1.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Flaxseed
534
Donut
452
Proteinper 100g
Flaxseed
18g
Donut
3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Flaxseed
29g
Donut
51g
Fatper 100g
Flaxseed
42g
Donut
25g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFlaxseedDonutDifference
Calories534kcal452kcal+82.0kcal
Protein18g3g+15.0g
Carbohydrates29g51g-22.0g
Fat42g25g+17.0g
Fiber27g1.4g+25.6g
Sugar1.6g21g-19.4g
Sodium30mg386mg-356.0mg

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

Donut

Per 100g:452 calories
Per cup (150g):678 calories
Per serving (85g):384 calories

Diet Compatibility

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Donut

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 3g)
  • More fiber (27g vs 1.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (29g vs 51g)
  • Less sugar (1.6g vs 21g)
  • Lower sodium (30mg vs 386mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

When to Choose Donut

  • Lower in calories (452 vs 534)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Donut nutrition →

Flaxseed vs Donut: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 452 for Donut, a difference of 82 calories. On the protein front, Flaxseed delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 3g, 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 Donut tell different nutritional stories. Flaxseed provides 29g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 27g of fiber per 100g, while Donut contains 51g carbs, 25g fat, and 1.4g 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 Donut has 21g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Donut is the lower-calorie choice at 452 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 Donut?

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

Is Flaxseed healthier than Donut?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Flaxseed is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 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 Flaxseed and Donut?

Flaxseed has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Donut with 3g. Flaxseed provides 15.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Flaxseed or Donut?

For weight loss, Donut is the better choice with only 452 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 Donut have fewer carbs?

Flaxseed has fewer carbs with 29g per 100g, compared to Donut with 51g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Flaxseed is the better option with 22.0g 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.