Chia Seed vs. Flax Seeds - Which is Better?

Chia seeds oils high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. And also topical use of chia seed oil increases skin hydration, alleviates itchy skin and increases skin barrier function.

Chia seed oil are an excellent source of antioxidants. In fact, it's their high antioxidant content that keeps the oil fresh for a long time, and prevents them from turning rancid. flaxseed oil, on the other hand, lose its nutrients and go rancid relatively quickly when it is not stored correctly, preferably in a dark, cool place, like the refrigerator or freezer.

Chia oil has found recent interest in the cosmetics industry for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties too.

Chia seed is the richest botanical source of Omega 3 fatty acids found in nature. Gram for gram, chia seed oil offers more omega-3 fatty acid than flax seed.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids help manage blood cholesterol and are abundant in both oils being a little more in flax than chia seed oil.

Some  people have allergic reactions to chia.  Those who are allergic to sesame or mustard seeds are more likely to have an allergic reaction to chia.

Flax seeds contain even more phytoestrogens than  soy, although in the form of lignans then isoflavones. Lignans may help fight some form of breast cancer.

Flax seed contain phytic acid considered to be an anti-nutrient.

Flaxseed oil contain phytoestrogens. This can be beneficial to postmenopausal women or women with certain hormonal imbalances.  However, since most of us already have more estrogen than we need and not enough progesterone, we should probably limit our flax consumption.  Men might consider avoiding it all together.  It is also important to note that one study shows pregnant women who consume flax oil quadrupled their rates of premature labor.

Chia seed is considerably more expensive than flax.

Flax seeds might have estrogen like effects. This might be risky for men and pregnant women.

Flax seed also has laxative effect. Risky for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea etc.