Differences between Chia Seeds and Flax Seeds

Chia seeds and flax seeds may sound similar at first glance, but they are actually seeds from two different plants and are completely unrelated. Chia seeds are the seeds of chia; flax seeds, also known as sesame seeds, are the seeds of flax. Both seeds are edible and have high nutritional value, containing a variety of nutrients essential to the human body; but the nutrients they contain are different. What is the difference between chia seeds and flax seeds? Let’s take a look at it together below.

Different species

Chia seeds: Chia seeds are also known as chia seeds and chia seeds. Their scientific name is Salvia officinalis, a mint plant.

Flaxseed: Flaxseed is the seed of the annual herb flax, also known as sesame, belonging to the Linales, Linaceae, and Linum genus.

Different ways of eating

Chia seeds: Chia seeds are mainly used to make tea and consumed as a health-preserving tea.

Flaxseed: Flaxseed is mainly used as a seasoning, such as an ingredient in biscuits, cakes, bread, etc. It also tastes good when pressed into cooking oil.

Different forms

Chia seeds: Chia seeds are small, generally 1.87±0.1mm long, 1.21±0.08m wide, 0.88±0.04mm thick, oval in shape, with a smooth surface, ranging in color from beige to dark brown, with small black spots on the surface, and a hard texture.

Flax seeds: Flax seeds, like sesame seeds, come in black and white. They are flat and oval in shape and have a soft texture.

Different nutritional content

Chia seeds: Chia seeds are rich in α-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid for the human body. They are a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids and are rich in dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals, etc.

Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are cholesterol-free and high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which contain nutrients that may help prevent heart disease and other chronic diseases.