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

Pistachios vs Pumpkin Seeds: 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?

Pistachios is generally healthier

Pistachios comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (20g vs 19g), more fiber (10g vs 6.5g), less sodium (1mg vs 18mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Pumpkin Seeds

559 kcal

More Protein

Pistachios

20g

More Fiber

Pistachios

10g

Less Sugar

Pumpkin Seeds

1.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Pistachios
560
Pumpkin Seeds
559
Proteinper 100g
Pistachios
20g
Pumpkin Seeds
19g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Pistachios
28g
Pumpkin Seeds
11g
Fatper 100g
Pistachios
45g
Pumpkin Seeds
49g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientPistachiosPumpkin SeedsDifference
Calories560kcal559kcal+1.0kcal
Protein20g19g+1.0g
Carbohydrates28g11g+17.0g
Fat45g49g-4.0g
Fiber10g6.5g+3.5g
Sugar7.7g1.1g+6.6g
Sodium1mg18mg-17.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Pistachios

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

Pumpkin Seeds

Per 100g:559 calories
Per cup (150g):839 calories
Per serving (85g):475 calories

Diet Compatibility

Pistachios

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Pumpkin Seeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Pistachios

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 19g)
  • More fiber (10g vs 6.5g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 18mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pistachios nutrition →

When to Choose Pumpkin Seeds

  • Lower in calories (559 vs 560)
  • Lower in carbs (11g vs 28g)
  • Less sugar (1.1g vs 7.7g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Pumpkin Seeds nutrition →

Pistachios vs Pumpkin Seeds: Nutritional Analysis

Pistachios is more calorie-dense at 560 calories per 100g compared to 559 for Pumpkin Seeds, a difference of 1 calories. On the protein front, Pistachios delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 19g, 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 Pistachios and Pumpkin Seeds tell different nutritional stories. Pistachios provides 28g of carbohydrates, 45g of fat, and 10g of fiber per 100g, while Pumpkin Seeds contains 11g carbs, 49g fat, and 6.5g fiber. The higher fiber content in Pistachios supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Pistachios contains 7.7g while Pumpkin Seeds has 1.1g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Pumpkin Seeds is the lower-calorie choice at 559 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Pistachios provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Pistachios offers more fiber (10g/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, Pistachios or Pumpkin Seeds?

Pistachios has more calories with 560 kcal per 100g, compared to Pumpkin Seeds with 559 kcal. That's a difference of 1 calories per 100g serving.

Is Pistachios healthier than Pumpkin Seeds?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Pistachios is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Pistachios has 560 calories, 20g protein, and 10g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Pistachios and Pumpkin Seeds?

Pistachios has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Pumpkin Seeds with 19g. Pistachios provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Pistachios or Pumpkin Seeds?

For weight loss, Pumpkin Seeds is the better choice with only 559 calories per 100g compared to 560 calories in Pistachios. Pistachios also offers 10g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Pistachios or Pumpkin Seeds have fewer carbs?

Pumpkin Seeds has fewer carbs with 11g per 100g, compared to Pistachios with 28g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Pumpkin Seeds is the better option with 17.0g 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.