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

Pistachio vs Flaxseeds: 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?

Flaxseeds is generally healthier

Flaxseeds comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (534 vs 560), more fiber (27g vs 10.6g), less sugar (1.6g vs 7.7g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Flaxseeds

534 kcal

More Protein

Pistachio

20g

More Fiber

Flaxseeds

27g

Less Sugar

Flaxseeds

1.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachio
560
Flaxseeds
534
Proteinper 100g
Pistachio
20g
Flaxseeds
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachio
28g
Flaxseeds
29g
Fatper 100g
Pistachio
45g
Flaxseeds
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachioFlaxseedsDifference
Calories560kcal534kcal+26.0kcal
Protein20g18g+2.0g
Carbohydrates28g29g-1.0g
Fat45g42g+3.0g
Fiber10.6g27g-16.4g
Sugar7.7g1.6g+6.1g
Sodium1mg30mg-29.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pistachio

Per 100g:560 calories
Per cup (150g):840 calories
Per serving (85g):476 calories

Flaxseeds

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

Diet Compatibility

Pistachio

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Flaxseeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pistachio

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 18g)
  • Lower in carbs (28g vs 29g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 30mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachio nutrition →

When to Choose Flaxseeds

  • Lower in calories (534 vs 560)
  • More fiber (27g vs 10.6g)
  • Less sugar (1.6g vs 7.7g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseeds nutrition →

Pistachio vs Flaxseeds: Nutritional Analysis

Pistachio is more calorie-dense at 560 calories per 100g compared to 534 for Flaxseeds, a difference of 26 calories. On the protein front, Pistachio delivers more with 20g 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 Pistachio and Flaxseeds tell different nutritional stories. Pistachio provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10.6g of fiber per 100g, while Flaxseeds contains 29g carbs, 42g fat, and 27g fiber. The higher fiber content in Flaxseeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pistachio contains 7.7g while Flaxseeds has 1.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Flaxseeds is the lower-calorie choice at 534 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pistachio provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Flaxseeds 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, Pistachio or Flaxseeds?

Pistachio has more calories with 560 kcal per 100g, compared to Flaxseeds with 534 kcal. That's a difference of 26 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachio healthier than Flaxseeds?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Flaxseeds is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Flaxseeds 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 Pistachio and Flaxseeds?

Pistachio has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Flaxseeds with 18g. Pistachio provides 2.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachio or Flaxseeds?

For weight loss, Flaxseeds is the better choice with only 534 calories per 100g compared to 560 calories in Pistachio. Flaxseeds also offers 27g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pistachio or Flaxseeds have fewer carbs?

Pistachio has fewer carbs with 28g per 100g, compared to Flaxseeds with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pistachio is the better option with 1.0g 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.