AskDocDoc
/
/
/
are chia seeds and sabja same
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 03M : 40S
background image
Click Here
background image
Nutrition & Diet
Question #22456
30 days ago
53

are chia seeds and sabja same - #22456

Pooja

I am really curious about chia seeds and sabja! I came across some recipe online that said to use sabja seeds, and I thought they were the same thing as chia seeds. But now, I'm not sure. I mean, both of these seeds look kinda similar, right? I ordered some sabja seeds online after seeing a health blog claiming they were great for hydration, but when they arrived, I started to wonder if are chia seeds and sabja same. I've tried chia before, and I remember they had that gel-like texture when soaked. Do sabja seeds do that too, or is it different? Also, I've seen people say sabja seeds have a unique flavor while others mention chia seeds are more versatile, you know? Did I make a mistake ordering sabja to put in my smoothies and puddings? Can they be used in the same ways as chia seeds? I really hope they’re interchangeable since I’m all about healthy eating right now. Gosh, so many questions about this little seed mystery! Any pointers would be super helpful!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Chia seeds and sabja seeds, while similar in appearance, are indeed different. These seeds both create that gel-like texture when soaked, but they’re from different plants. Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica, whereas sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, are from Ocimum basilicum. In terms of texture, you’re right; both develop a gel when soaked, making them popular in hydrating drinks and desserts. The key difference lies in their taste and nutritional profile. Sabja seeds have a mild flavor, which makes them suitable for drinks and desserts where you don’t want to alter the flavor too much. Chia seeds, on the other hand, are generally tasteless, providing a versatile option for various dishes without influencing taste profiles significantly.

Nutritionally, both seeds are great sources of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, though chia seeds tend to provide a bit more omega-3s. When it comes to using them in smoothies and puddings, they can be used interchangeably, though it might slightly affect the consistency or the flavor, particularly the slight nuttier taste of chia. Adding either to your smoothies or puddings won’t be a mistake; it might just introduce a slightly different texture or flavor that you may find enjoyable. If you’re focusing on hydration, sabja seeds frequently get the nod due to their rapid swelling and gel formation when soaked, which can make drinks particularly refreshing. Moreover, both seeds can contribute to satiety, making them both healthy additions to your diet. Go ahead and experiment with using sabja in your recipes!

16227 answered questions
86% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions