Chia Seeds Nutrition Facts

Complete chia seeds nutrition breakdown with 486 kcal per 100g, glycemic index, and diet compatibility.

Written by Victura Nutrition TeamReviewed by Victura Editorial ReviewLast updated Jul 18, 2026

486

Calories

16.5g

Protein

42.1g

Carbs

Use caution

Is it healthy?

per 100g · per panel values

Track this food in Victura

Quick answer

A 2-tablespoon serving of chia seeds contains around 136 calories, while 100g contains about 486 calories. Per 100g you get about 42.12g carbs and 16.54g protein. Glycemic index is around 15.

Chia Seeds is a whole food with approximately 486 calories per 100g, tracked in Victura for macro-aware meal logging.

Calories (2-tablespoon serving)
136 kcal
Calories (100g)
486 kcal
Carbs (100g)
42.12g
Protein (100g)
16.54g
Serving reference
28g · 2-tablespoon serving
Glycemic index
15
Chia Seeds food photo
Chia Seeds — real food photo
Chia Seeds portion size visual
Portion size
Chia Seeds calories and macros infographic
Calories & macros

Serving calculator

How much did you eat or drinkChia Seeds?

486

Calories

16.5g

Protein

42.1g

Carbs

30.7g

Fat

Nutrition facts

per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central (seeded Phase 0)

486 kcal

Calories

Protein16.5g
Carbohydrates42.1g
Fat30.7g
Fiber34.4g
Sugar0.0g
Glycemic index15low

Minerals

  • Calcium: 631mg
  • Phosphorus: 860mg

Scientific explanation

Research-backed

Chia Seeds provides approximately 486 kcal per 100g with 16.54g protein, 42.12g carbohydrates, and 30.74g fat. Dietary fiber is exceptionally high at 34.4g per 100g, meaning that net carbohydrates are extremely low at just 7.72g per 100g. The glycemic index of chia seeds is estimated at 15, which is classified as very low. This low glycemic impact is primarily due to the unique gel-forming soluble fiber structure that physically slows down enzymatic carbohydrate digestion and subsequent glucose absorption in the small intestine. All values are sourced from USDA FoodData Central and peer-reviewed literature to ensure clinical accuracy.

Community insights

Community insight

Among Victura meal logs, chia seeds appears frequently as a versatile dietary staple, most commonly utilized as a portable snack, smoothie booster, or oatmeal topper. Analysis of user-submitted meal logs reveals that individuals who prepare 'chia pudding'—by soaking the seeds in water, almond milk, or dairy milk overnight—report significantly higher satiety levels and sustained physical energy throughout the morning compared to those consuming quick-digesting carbohydrate breakfasts. Furthermore, community feedback highlights that pairing chia seeds with Greek yogurt, protein powders, or raw nuts helps mitigate any potential digestive discomfort that can occasionally occur when introducing high amounts of fiber too quickly. Users also frequently log chia seeds as an egg replacement in vegan baking, leveraging its natural gelling properties to bind ingredients. The consensus among the Victura community is that pre-hydrating the seeds is the most effective way to enjoy their texture and maximize their digestive benefits without experiencing dehydration or bloating.

Pros

  • Extremely high in dietary fiber (34.4g per 100g) to support gut health
  • Rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) for cardiovascular support
  • Excellent plant-based complete protein source with 16.54g of protein
  • Highly keto-friendly with only 7.72g of net carbs per 100g

Cons

  • Highly energy-dense (486 kcal per 100g), requiring strict portion control
  • Can cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts without adequate hydration

Best time to eat

Consume pre-hydrated in the morning or 1-2 hours before endurance exercise for sustained energy release.

Good windows

  • Breakfast / Morning meal
  • Pre-workout (1-2 hours prior)

Consider avoiding

  • Dry consumption immediately before sleeping without adequate fluids

Diet compatibility

Weight loss

Use caution

At 486 kcal per 100g, they are energy-dense and must be portioned carefully to avoid exceeding calorie targets.

Keto

Friendly

Net carbs are only ~7.72g per 100g, making them highly compatible with strict ketogenic diets.

Diabetic friendly

Friendly

An estimated glycemic index of 15 and 0.0g of sugar per 100g ensures a highly stable blood sugar response.

Frequently asked questions

Yes — chia seeds is a whole food with measurable nutrients. Healthiness depends on overall diet, portions, and your goals. Estimated GI is 15.

People also ask

  • Is chia seeds healthy?

    Yes — chia seeds is a whole food with measurable nutrients. Healthiness depends on overall diet, portions, and your goals. Estimated GI is 15.

  • Can I eat chia seeds every day?

    Most people can include chia seeds daily as part of a balanced diet, as long as total calories and carbs fit their plan.

  • Are chia seeds good for weight loss?

    At 486 kcal per 100g, they are energy-dense and must be portioned carefully to avoid exceeding calorie targets.

  • How many calories are in chia seeds?

    A typical medium serving of chia seeds has about 486 calories, while 100g contains about 486 calories (USDA reference).

  • Are chia seeds good before a workout?

    Chia seeds can work before activity when you want easy carbs; pair chia seeds with protein if your session is long.

  • Are chia seeds high in sugar?

    Chia seeds contain about 0.0g sugar per 100g — mostly natural sugars when whole.

  • Are chia seeds healthy?

    Yes, chia seeds are highly nutritious and considered an exceptionally healthy addition to most diets. They are packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids, plant-based protein, and vital minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Their high fiber content supports digestive health, while their low glycemic index of 15 helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. However, because they are energy-dense, their healthfulness is optimized when consumed in appropriate portion sizes that align with your daily caloric goals.

  • How many calories are in a serving of chia seeds?

    A typical whole portion or standard serving of 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of chia seeds contains approximately 136 calories. On a larger scale, 100 grams of dried chia seeds contains 486 calories, as referenced by the USDA FoodData Central. Because they are highly concentrated, measuring your portions with a spoon or scale is highly recommended to keep your daily calorie intake on track.

  • Is chia seeds keto-friendly?

    Yes, chia seeds are highly keto-friendly. With 42.12g of total carbohydrates and 34.4g of dietary fiber per 100g, the net carbohydrate content is only about 7.72g per 100g. A standard 2-tablespoon (28g) serving contains only about 2.1g of net carbs, making it incredibly easy to fit into a strict daily ketogenic limit of 20 to 50 grams of carbs while providing essential fats and fiber.

  • What is the glycemic index of chia seeds?

    The glycemic index (GI) of chia seeds is estimated to be 15, which is classified as very low. Because they contain virtually zero sugar and are packed with soluble fiber, they do not cause rapid spikes in blood glucose. When consumed alongside higher-glycemic foods, the gel-forming fibers in chia seeds can actually help slow down the absorption of glucose from the rest of your meal, improving overall postprandial glycemic control.

How we review this guide

Written by
Victura Nutrition Team
Reviewed by
Victura Editorial Review
Reference sources
4
Last updated
Jul 18, 2026

Revision & correction policy

References

  1. USDA FoodData Central: Seeds, chia seeds, dried(usda)
  2. International Tables of Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Values(scientific)

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