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

Sesame Seeds 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 563), more protein (18g vs 17g), more fiber (27g vs 11.8g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Flaxseeds

534 kcal

More Protein

Flaxseeds

18g

More Fiber

Flaxseeds

27g

Less Sugar

Sesame Seeds

0.3g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sesame Seeds
563
Flaxseeds
534
Proteinper 100g
Sesame Seeds
17g
Flaxseeds
18g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sesame Seeds
23g
Flaxseeds
29g
Fatper 100g
Sesame Seeds
50g
Flaxseeds
42g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSesame SeedsFlaxseedsDifference
Calories563kcal534kcal+29.0kcal
Protein17g18g-1.0g
Carbohydrates23g29g-6.0g
Fat50g42g+8.0g
Fiber11.8g27g-15.2g
Sugar0.3g1.6g-1.3g
Sodium11mg30mg-19.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sesame Seeds

Per 100g:563 calories
Per cup (150g):845 calories
Per serving (85g):479 calories

Flaxseeds

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

Diet Compatibility

Sesame Seeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Flaxseeds

High-ProteinVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Sesame Seeds

  • Lower in carbs (23g vs 29g)
  • Less sugar (0.3g vs 1.6g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 30mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sesame Seeds nutrition →

When to Choose Flaxseeds

  • Lower in calories (534 vs 563)
  • Higher in protein (18g vs 17g)
  • More fiber (27g vs 11.8g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Flaxseeds nutrition →

Sesame Seeds vs Flaxseeds: Nutritional Analysis

Sesame Seeds is more calorie-dense at 563 calories per 100g compared to 534 for Flaxseeds, a difference of 29 calories. On the protein front, Flaxseeds delivers more with 18g per 100g versus 17g, 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 Sesame Seeds and Flaxseeds tell different nutritional stories. Sesame Seeds provides 23g of carbohydrates, 50g of fat, and 11.8g 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: Sesame Seeds contains 0.3g 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: Flaxseeds provides more protein (18g/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, Sesame Seeds or Flaxseeds?

Sesame Seeds has more calories with 563 kcal per 100g, compared to Flaxseeds with 534 kcal. That's a difference of 29 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sesame Seeds 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 Sesame Seeds and Flaxseeds?

Flaxseeds has more protein with 18g per 100g, compared to Sesame Seeds with 17g. Flaxseeds provides 1.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sesame Seeds or Flaxseeds?

For weight loss, Flaxseeds is the better choice with only 534 calories per 100g compared to 563 calories in Sesame Seeds. Flaxseeds also offers 27g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sesame Seeds or Flaxseeds have fewer carbs?

Sesame Seeds has fewer carbs with 23g per 100g, compared to Flaxseeds with 29g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sesame Seeds is the better option with 6.0g 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.