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

Flaxseed vs Parmesan: 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?

Parmesan is generally healthier

Parmesan comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (431 vs 534), more protein (38g vs 18g), less sugar (0.7g vs 1.6g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Parmesan

431 kcal

More Protein

Parmesan

38g

More Fiber

Flaxseed

27g

Less Sugar

Parmesan

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Flaxseed
534
Parmesan
431
Proteinper 100g
Flaxseed
18g
Parmesan
38g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Flaxseed
29g
Parmesan
4.1g
Fatper 100g
Flaxseed
42g
Parmesan
29g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientFlaxseedParmesanDifference
Calories534kcal431kcal+103.0kcal
Protein18g38g-20.0g
Carbohydrates29g4.1g+24.9g
Fat42g29g+13.0g
Fiber27g0g+27.0g
Sugar1.6g0.7g+0.9g
Sodium30mg1529mg-1499.0mg

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

Parmesan

Per 100g:431 calories
Per cup (150g):647 calories
Per serving (85g):366 calories

Diet Compatibility

Flaxseed

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Parmesan

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

When to Choose Flaxseed

  • More fiber (27g vs 0g)
  • Lower sodium (30mg vs 1529mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseed nutrition →

When to Choose Parmesan

  • Lower in calories (431 vs 534)
  • Higher in protein (38g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (4.1g vs 29g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 1.6g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Parmesan nutrition →

Flaxseed vs Parmesan: Nutritional Analysis

Flaxseed is more calorie-dense at 534 calories per 100g compared to 431 for Parmesan, a difference of 103 calories. On the protein front, Parmesan delivers more with 38g per 100g versus 18g, 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 Parmesan tell different nutritional stories. Flaxseed provides 29g of carbohydrates, 42g of fat, and 27g of fiber per 100g, while Parmesan contains 4.1g carbs, 29g fat, and 0g 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 Parmesan has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Parmesan is the lower-calorie choice at 431 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Parmesan provides more protein (38g/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 Parmesan?

Flaxseed has more calories with 534 kcal per 100g, compared to Parmesan with 431 kcal. That's a difference of 103 calories per 100g serving.

Is Flaxseed healthier than Parmesan?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Parmesan is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Parmesan has 431 calories, 38g protein, and 0g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Flaxseed and Parmesan?

Parmesan has more protein with 38g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 18g. Parmesan provides 20.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Flaxseed or Parmesan?

For weight loss, Parmesan is the better choice with only 431 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 Parmesan have fewer carbs?

Parmesan has fewer carbs with 4.1g per 100g, compared to Flaxseed with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Parmesan is the better option with 24.9g 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.