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Chia seeds vs sabja seeds, dietitian explains which is better for you: ‘If you have issues related to cholesterol…’

A dietitian highlights the benefits of having chia seeds and sabja/basil seeds, along with listing which seeds are better for which ailment.

Updated on: Jun 6, 2025, 14:15:59 IST
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Superseeds are the latest superfood taking over every health enthusiast's feed, and among them, chia seeds and basil (also known as sabja) seeds take the front row for their several health benefits. But which one is better, and which seed should you consume?

Chia seeds and sabja seeds each have their own properties that benefit our health. But, which is better? (Shutterstock)
Chia seeds and sabja seeds each have their own properties that benefit our health. But, which is better? (Shutterstock)

Also Read | Nephrologist shares 5 ways diet can affect your kidney health and foods to avoid: Excess protein to high salt intake

Chia vs Sabja – which tiny seed wins?

Spoiler alert: They are both amazing. But, according to Shweta J Panchal, dietitian, MSc clinical nutrition, your choice should depend on your goals. In a video shared on April 16, she highlighted the many benefits of eating sabja and chia seeds, clarifying which seed you should eat for which goal.

Chia seeds

1. Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids

It is a very good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in your body.

2. Great for heart health

It also promotes your heart health. So, if you have any issues related to cholesterol or heart health, then you should include this in your diet.

3. It is a complete protein

What many people don't know is that these tiny seeds are a complete protein, meaning they contain all 9 essential amino acids. It is a great plant protein to add to your diet. Compared to Sabja seeds, they are higher in protein. Meaning, if you are eating the same quantity of both seeds, Chia seeds have more protein.

4. You stay full for long

They keep you fuller longer, making them a great supplement during weight loss.

5. Great source of micronutrients

They are also a great source of micronutrients, such as Magnesium, Copper, and Selenium. Many of these help in your diabetes management.

Sabja/Basil seeds

1. Helps deal with constipation, acidity, gas, or flatulence

It has a cooling property and contains a lot of fibre, making it great for digestion and summer. If you are suffering from constipation, acidity, gas, or flatulence, it will help relieve all the symptoms.

2. Great source of antioxidants

It also contains a lot of flavonoids and polyphenols, both of which are very good antioxidants.

3. Deals with acne

If you have active or recurring acne, sabja seeds are your go-to option because it has a coolant property.

  • Krishna Pallavi Priya
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Krishna Pallavi Priya

    Krishna Priya Pallavi is a journalist with over 9 years of experience, covering health, fashion, pop culture, travel, wellness, entertainment, festivals, mental health, art, decor, fitness, and sex and relationships. She is an alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal, and holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. Her strong academic foundation informs her analytical and detail-oriented approach to storytelling, helping her uncover stories where none seem to exist. Before joining Hindustan Times, Pallavi worked with some of India’s leading media organisations. She spent close to three years at India Today, where she honed her newsroom skills and developed a sharp editorial sensibility. She also worked for over a year and a half at Vagabomb, ScoopWhoop’s feminist digital platform, where she explored stories through a gender-sensitive, socially aware lens. Pallavi has a deep interest in global fashion trends and international fashion seasons, and enjoys interviewing celebrities and tracking pop culture movements—interests that frequently translate into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Alongside lifestyle and entertainment, she has a keen eye for impactful health and wellness journalism, regularly interacting with doctors, designers, and digital content creators to bring nuance and credibility to her work. Born and raised in Haryana, Pallavi remains deeply connected to her ancestral roots in Odisha. Her ability to spot fresh angles brings curiosity and depth to stories she pursues. When not chasing deadlines, she enjoys spending time with her dog, planning her next vacation, reading, running new trails, and discovering new destinations.Read More

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