AskDocDoc
/
/
/
is chia seeds and basil seeds 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 : 34M : 55S
background image
Click Here
background image
Nutrition & Diet
Question #23173
24 days ago
54

is chia seeds and basil seeds same - #23173

Drishti

I am really confused about something and hoping someone can help. I recently started trying out different health foods and someone mentioned chia seeds. I’ve been hearing a lot about them, then I saw basil seeds at the store and got curious. Are chia seeds and basil seeds same? Like, they look different to me, but everyone keeps saying they’re both super healthy. I used to think they were the same but I think I’m wrong! Anyway, I decided to give them a go, but when I soaked them for my smoothies, I noticed that the chias expanded a lot more than the basil ones, and some online articles said they have different health benefits too. Is that true? Also, I've read that they can be used in pretty much the same way but I’m not sure whose recipes to follow. Should I be using one over the other? Like, is there a reason to pick chia seeds and basil seeds both or stick to one if they’re basically the same? I’m just trying to figure out what to do with them both, cause I'm totally lost! So like, if anyone knows if chia seeds and basil seeds same, please share!

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 basil seeds are not the same, though they do have similarities. Both are seeds indeed and often used for their health benefits, but they come from different plants and have distinct appearances and properties. Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, native to Central America, while basil seeds, also known as sabja seeds, come from the basil plant, Ocimum basilicum, a herb commonly used in cooking. You noticed that chia seeds expand more with water because they can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, forming a gel-like consistency. This is due to their soluble fiber content, which makes them excellent for hydration and digestion. Basil seeds also swell when soaked but typically expand less than chia seeds. Looking at the nutritional profile, chia seeds are an impressive source of omega-3 fatty acids, high in fiber, protein, calcium, and magnesium. They’re popular for their role in heart health, weight management, and as an energy booster. Basil seeds are rich in fiber, contain iron, calcium, magnesium, and have cooling properties, which are often highlighted in traditional Asian medicine. Both can be used similarly in culinary applications like smoothies, puddings, and salads, but sometimes the choice between them comes down to personal dietary needs or preferences. For example, if you’re focusing on increasing omega-3 intake, chia seeds may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a cooling effect particularly in warmer weather, basil seeds might be more appropriate. There is no harm in using both seeds as they can complement each other, just be mindful of hydration when consuming them since they absorb water. You might want to experiment in the kitchen with both to see which you prefer or alternate them in your diet to benefit from their unique properties. Keep in mind when trying new food, especially in larger quantities, it’s good to ensure you’re not allergic.

16218 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