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

Flaxseed vs Granola: 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 9.4g), more fiber (27g vs 8.6g), less sugar (1.6g vs 33g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Granola

471 kcal

More Protein

Flaxseed

18g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Flaxseed

1.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Flaxseed
534
Granola
471
Proteinper 100g
Flaxseed
18g
Granola
9.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Flaxseed
29g
Granola
68g
Fatper 100g
Flaxseed
42g
Granola
18g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFlaxseedGranolaDifference
Calories534kcal471kcal+63.0kcal
Protein18g9.4g+8.6g
Carbohydrates29g68g-39.0g
Fat42g18g+24.0g
Fiber27g8.6g+18.4g
Sugar1.6g33g-31.4g
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

Granola

Per 100g:471 calories
Per cup (150g):707 calories
Per serving (85g):400 calories

Diet Compatibility

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Granola

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • Higher in protein (18g vs 9.4g)
  • More fiber (27g vs 8.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (29g vs 68g)
  • Less sugar (1.6g vs 33g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

When to Choose Granola

  • Lower in calories (471 vs 534)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 30mg)

Common Uses

Between mealsMovie nightsPartiesTravel food
View full Granola nutrition →

Flaxseed vs Granola: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 471 for Granola, a difference of 63 calories. On the protein front, Flaxseed delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 9.4g, 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 Granola tell different nutritional stories. Flaxseed provides 29g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 27g of fiber per 100g, while Granola contains 68g carbs, 18g fat, and 8.6g 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 Granola has 33g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Granola is the lower-calorie choice at 471 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 Granola?

Flaxseed has more calories with 534 kcal per 100g, compared to Granola with 471 kcal. That's a difference of 63 calories per 100g serving.

Is Flaxseed healthier than Granola?

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 Flaxseed and Granola?

Flaxseed has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Granola with 9.4g. Flaxseed provides 8.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Flaxseed or Granola?

For weight loss, Granola is the better choice with only 471 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 Granola have fewer carbs?

Flaxseed has fewer carbs with 29g per 100g, compared to Granola with 68g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Flaxseed is the better option with 39.0g 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.