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

Sunflower Seeds vs Cake: 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?

Sunflower Seeds is generally healthier

Sunflower Seeds comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9g vs 3g), more fiber (8.6g vs 0.6g), less sugar (2.6g vs 38g), less sodium (9mg vs 356mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cake

387 kcal

More Protein

Sunflower Seeds

9g

More Fiber

Sunflower Seeds

8.6g

Less Sugar

Sunflower Seeds

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
584
Cake
387
Proteinper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
9g
Cake
3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
20g
Cake
47g
Fatper 100g
Sunflower Seeds
51g
Cake
20g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSunflower SeedsCakeDifference
Calories584kcal387kcal+197.0kcal
Protein9g3g+6.0g
Carbohydrates20g47g-27.0g
Fat51g20g+31.0g
Fiber8.6g0.6g+8.0g
Sugar2.6g38g-35.4g
Sodium9mg356mg-347.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Sunflower Seeds

Per 100g:584 calories
Per cup (150g):876 calories
Per serving (85g):496 calories

Cake

Per 100g:387 calories
Per cup (150g):581 calories
Per serving (85g):329 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sunflower Seeds

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Cake

VeganVegetarian

When to Choose Sunflower Seeds

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 3g)
  • More fiber (8.6g vs 0.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (20g vs 47g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 38g)
  • Lower sodium (9mg vs 356mg)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Sunflower Seeds nutrition →

When to Choose Cake

  • Lower in calories (387 vs 584)

Common Uses

TreatsCelebrationsComfort foodSocial occasions
View full Cake nutrition →

Sunflower Seeds vs Cake: Nutritional Analysis

Sunflower Seeds is more calorie-dense at 584 calories per 100g compared to 387 for Cake, a difference of 197 calories. On the protein front, Sunflower Seeds delivers more with 9g per 100g versus 3g, 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 Sunflower Seeds and Cake tell different nutritional stories. Sunflower Seeds provides 20g of carbohydrates, 51g of fat, and 8.6g of fiber per 100g, while Cake contains 47g carbs, 20g fat, and 0.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sunflower Seeds supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Sunflower Seeds contains 2.6g while Cake has 38g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cake is the lower-calorie choice at 387 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Sunflower Seeds provides more protein (9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sunflower Seeds offers more fiber (8.6g/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, Sunflower Seeds or Cake?

Sunflower Seeds has more calories with 584 kcal per 100g, compared to Cake with 387 kcal. That's a difference of 197 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sunflower Seeds healthier than Cake?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Sunflower Seeds is generally the healthier choice, winning in 4 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Sunflower Seeds has 584 calories, 9g protein, and 8.6g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sunflower Seeds and Cake?

Sunflower Seeds has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Cake with 3g. Sunflower Seeds provides 6.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sunflower Seeds or Cake?

For weight loss, Cake is the better choice with only 387 calories per 100g compared to 584 calories in Sunflower Seeds. Sunflower Seeds also offers 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sunflower Seeds or Cake have fewer carbs?

Sunflower Seeds has fewer carbs with 20g per 100g, compared to Cake with 47g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Sunflower Seeds is the better option with 27.0g 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.