Are Avocados And Bananas Related? Discovering Surprising Similarities!

Curious minds often wonder are avocados and bananas related or somehow connected to their fruit family tree? While they may share the same fruit bowl, wondering about their family ties often discover surprising similarities. 

Actually, avocados and bananas are not even closely related botanically. Both of them are fruits, but they come from a different family. However, you can see some similarities between these two fruits in terms of richness of nutrients, dietary planning, and culinary uses. 

However, in today’s write-up, delving down to your curiosity, we’ll cover everything comprehensively here. So, keep reading.

Are Avocados And Bananas Related?

As you see, botanically, avocados and bananas are not even closely related. Avocados roll with the Lauraceae family, and are classified under the genus Persea whereas the bananas belong to the Musaceae family, and are classified under the genus Musa. 

Avocado trees are evergreen trees that produce fruits that have a unique creamy texture. Bananas are herbaceous plants that typically produce curved and long fruits with sweet and soft flesh. 

Avocados and bananas both are fruits, they both have distinct characteristics and come from different plant families. Where the avocados are native to Central and South America, the bananas are native to tropical regions.

Despite their botanical or taxonomy differences, there are some similarities between these fruits. For instance-

1# Rich In Nutrients 

Both avocados and bananas are nutrient-dense fruits that provide many essential minerals, vitamins, dietary fiber, and so on. 

For instance, bananas and avocados are rich sources of potassium which is essential for regulating blood pressure and maintaining nerve and muscle function. 

Both fruits are a rich source of dietary fiber, helping in digestion and reducing the risk of colon diseases. 

2# Dietary Planning 

For a balanced dietary planning, incorporating bananas and avocados has a great contribution. 

Due to their unique taste and texture but packed with nutrients and vitamins, bananas and avocados contribute to a healthy diet and enhance the overall dining experience. 

3# Culinary Uses 

Despite the unique taste and texture of the banana and the avocados, they both have versatile culinary uses. 

For making smoothies, salads, desserts, baking, spreads, and dips or snacks, these fruits are vastly used. 

In culinary uses, where the bananas lend the natural sweetness, the creamy texture of the avocado adds richness.

Difference Between Avocado And Banana

The two distinct fruits, the avocado and banana vary significantly in their texture, taste, and nutritional profiles. 

For a quick review, check out the significant nutrient differences between avocados and bananas. 

• Banana has 39.7 times more sugar than avocados.
• Both bananas and dietary fiber are high in potassium and dietary fiber. 
• Bananas have 62 % more carbohydrates than avocados. 
• Bananas have 17.9 times less saturated fat than avocados.
• Avocados have more B vitamins, for instance, thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and folate.

However, let’s Check out the avocado vs banana in its nutritional profile comprehensively in the below chart.

Nutrients	Avocado [Per 100 Grams]	Banana [Per 100 Grams]
Calories	167 calories	89 calories.
Carbohydrate	8.6 g	22.8 g
Protein	2 g	1.1 g
Fat	2.1 g of saturated fat	0.11 g of saturated fat
Dietary Fiber	6.8 g	2.6 g
Sugar	0.3 g	12.2 g
Vitamin A	7u g	3 ug
The B Vitamins Thiamin Riboflavin Niacin Pantothenic Acid Vitamin B6 Folate	0.075 mg 0.143 mg 1.912 mg 1.463 mg 0.287 mg 89 ug	0.031 mg 0.073 mg 0.665 mg 0.334 mg 0.367 mg 20 ug
Vitamin C	8.8 mg	8.7 mg
Vitamin E	2 mg	0.1 mg
Vitamin K	21 ug	0.5 ug
Calcium	13 mg	5 mg
Iron	0.61 mg	0.26 mg
Potassium	507 mg	358 mg
Carotenoids Alpha-Carotene BetaCarotene Lutein + Zeaxanthin	63 ug 24 ug 271 ug	26 ug 25 ug 22 ug
Omega 3s Alpha Linoleic Acid Total	0.125 g 0.125 g	0.027 g 0.027 g
Omega 6s Linoleic Acid Other Omega 6 Total	1.674 g 0.015 g 1.689 g	0.046 g

Are Avocados And Banana Allergy Related?

Yes, in some cases, the people who are allergic to avocado can also be allergic to bananas. It happens due to the latex cross-reactivity. 

People who have latex allergies can have an allergic reaction to certain fruits like bananas and avocado as proteins in latex are also present in these fruits that cause the latex allergy. 

For instance, the plantain banana contains a similar type of protein and can also cause a reaction. Other fruits that can cause cross-reactivity with the avocados are Chestnuts, Kiwis, Plums, Strawberries, Passionfruit, and Tomatoes. 

Symptoms of latex allergy are included 

• Itchy skin.
• Crusty skin lesions.
• Lesions that are irritated by sweat and friction.
• Sneezing.
• Coughing
• Dermatitis.
• Wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Hay fever symptoms like itchy eyes or running nose when latex is inhaled
• Drop in blood pressure 
• Severe symptoms like anaphylaxis 

So, if you are allergic to avocados due to latex fruits syndrome, you should ask your allergist whether you should also avoid plantains or bananas. 

Can You Eat Banana And Avocado Together? 

Yes, you can enjoy avocado and banana together in various culinary creations. And you know, according to some, these two fruits are the perfect pair. 

Both avocado and banana have a creamy texture and rich flavors along with high in potassium. 

Moreover, the contrasting flavors and textures of the avocado and banana can complement each other well. 

Whether you are considering salad, sandwich, or smoothies, a delightful mix of the banana and avocado can add the creamy richness of the avocado and the natural sweetness of the banana. 

However, you should always keep in mind that moderation is always important when the matter is about consuming any kind of food. 

As the avocado and banana both are high in calories, it is best if you put them in the appropriate portions based on the requirements of your daily calorie intake.

Incorporating Avocado And Banana In Your Diet

Incorporating avocado and banana into the diet brings an exceptional blend of nutritional profiles as well as flavors. 

Where the creamy texture of the avocado adds enhancement to savory dishes or smoothies, the natural sweetness of the banana makes a delicious addition to both savory and sweet meals. 

However, here are some ideas of how you can incorporate bananas and avocados into your diet. Check it out. 

• You can add sliced avocado to your sandwich or salad for the addition of a delicious and creamy texture.
• Make guacamole by mashing the avocado with lime juice, pepper, and salt. Guacamole makes a great dip for the tortilla chips and veggies.
• For the smoothies and the oatmeals the mashed banana can be added for a natural sweetness. 
• You can make a healthy and satisfying snack just by topping the yogurt with some banana sliced and some nuts and granola.  
• Banana breads or muffins can also be baked for a tasty potassium-rich treat. 
• You can also use the mashed avocado as a healthy and creamy substitute for the sour cream or mayonnaise in your recipes. 

Bananas and avocado can be a tasty as well as easy addition to your diet offering overall improvement of your health. 

Whether you want to maintain a healthy balanced diet or aim to lose weight, these two fruits- avocado and banana can be great companions for any snack or meal.

Avocado Banana Recipes

At this point of our discussion, let’s explore the delightful and tasty banana and avocado recipes that bring the sweet flavor and the creamy goodness together. From smoothies to ice cream or bread recipes, let’s check that out. 

Recipe 1: Easy Avocado Banana Smoothie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Avocado
• ¾ cup Banana
• 3 tablespoon Honey 
• 2 ½ tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1 cup milk 
• Whipped cream(optional)

For serving

• ¼ chopped banana
• Dry fruits 1 tablespoon
• Honey 1 tablespoon 

Prep time: 3 minutes

Cook time: 2 minutes

Instruction

Step 1: First of all, you need to cut the avocado and banana into pieces and put them into a blender. 

Step 2: Now add 3 tablespoons of honey (if you want, you can use 2 ½ tablespoons of sugar), 1 cup of milk or whipped cream, and blend them until they become smooth. If you want to add ice cubes, then minimize the amount of milk to a ¾ cup. 

Step 3: If you want to take the smoothie to the next level, you can add frozen berries for a sweeter treat. You can also add chia, flax, and seeds. All done! 

For Serving: Take a long glass, and stick a few slices of banana to the wall of the glass for serving. 

Pour the smoothie into the glass with a top of chopped nuts, almonds, and cashews. Further, add 1 table of honey to the top of the smoothie. 

Recipe 2: Vanilla Avocado Banana Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients

• One ripe avocado
• One medium frozen banana
• Vanilla extract 1 tablespoon
• Milk ½ cup (use nut milk, milk)
• Sugar ½ cup (use your desired amount)
• Ice cubes 1 cup (optional)
• Creams

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Instruction

Step 1: To make the banana avocado ice cream, you need a frozen banana and ripe avocado. Cut them into pieces and mix all the ingredients in a blender. 

Step 2: Mix them until they become a smooth batter. Don’t fear high. Better to do this at a lower speed for a longer duration and high for a shorter duration.

Step 3: If you want creamy ice cream, then add cream in the batter of banana, sugar, and avocado. Mix them properly. 

Step 4: Pour into a container and fridge them. After 1 night or 12 hours, it’s ready to eat. This will be so creamy and delicious, that you have to try it.

Recipe 3: Avocado Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• One overripe avocado
• Two eggs
• 3 ripe bananas
• Granulated sugar ¾ cup
• Better milk ¼ cup
• White wheat flour 2 cup
• Baking powder 1 table tablespoon
• Baking soda 1 tablespoon
• Kosher salt ½ tablespoon
• Vanilla essence 1 ½ tablespoon
• Mini chocolate chips 1 ½ cup
• Chopped walnuts ½ cup

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Instruction

Step 1: For making the avocado bread, take a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan with nonstick foil. Brush some olive oil on the bottom of the loaf pan and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2: In a bowl add all the dry ingredients- flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt, and stir it up. 

Then mash the banana, and avocado, and put them into a blender or food processor. Blend them until they become a smooth creamy batter. 

Step 3: Pour the batter into a large bowl and add ¾ cup sugar, (if you like sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to 1 cup), 2 eggs, and vanilla essence. Beat them with a hand mixer until they mix well or become a smooth batter.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, and stir them. For a smooth texture add ¼ cup milk. After properly mixing the batter add ½ cup chopped walnuts, and ½ cup chocolate chips and stir them in.

Step 5: Pour batter into the loaf pan, add some chocolate chips, and walnut on the top of the batter, and bake them in the preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes at 350 degrees F. 

Bake until the top of the cake is browned and a toothpick comes up clean. allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: For serving the cake, you can use spinal-coded powdered sugar. If desired!

Does Avocado Taste Like Banana? 

Actually, avocados do not taste like bananas. Avocados and bananas both have distinct flavors and textures. 

Avocados are world-known for their creamy and buttery texture whereas bananas boast the taste of sweet and slightly tangy. 

One reason for this can be that the green bananas are quite similar to a certain age of ripeness of the avocado. When the fruit ripens or matures, there is a change in the flavor. 

Another reason can be that the avocado has overripe or has gotten bad which generally is sour in taste and smell. To some people, the sour taste of the avocado is just like that of a banana.

Why Do Bananas And Avocados Hurt My Stomach? 

The avocados and bananas are high in fiber. These fruits can cause discomfort to some people. The facts are especially true if people have a sensitive digestive system. 

Moreover, it is possible that the individual has an intolerance or allergy to these fruits. Bananas and avocados both are high in a natural chemical called histamine. The content of these fruits can cause an allergic reaction in some people. 

Although allergies to the banana and avocado are rare, there can be symptoms like stomach pain. 

Generally, food allergy or food intolerance occurs when the immune system of an individual reacts to a specific food or to a specific substance of a food. When that happens there can be symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, or vomiting. 

That’s why if anyone experiences intense hurt in the stomach after eating bananas or avocados, he should avoid those foods and seek medical assistance and advice.  

Health Benefits Of Avocado

Avocados are the powerhouse of nutrients, packed with heart-healthy contents, and an array of minerals and vitamins. Consumption of avocados offers a range of benefits. 

Here we’re going to highlight only a few of them. 

1# Helps In Weight Loss

One of the other benefits of the avocado is that it helps in reducing weight. As the avocado is a great source of dietary fiber, it is widely used for the journey of weight loss. 

Avocados help you to feel full for longer and make you eat fewer calories thus helping in controlling or losing weight. 

Moreover, avocados are also low in carbohydrates which is also a great assistance for the weight loss journey. 

2# Helps In Blood Pressure Regulation 

Moreover, avocado is a good source of minerals like potassium and sodium. The potassium content of the avocado helps to keep the blood pressure stable. The more stable blood pressure, the less risk of heart attack and stroke. 

3# Friendly To Heart

Avocados are also a good friend for heart health. It contains a plant sterol named beta-sitosterol which regular consumption and other plant sterols help to maintain the cholesterol level. Thus avocado helps keep your heart and the veins and arteries of the heart healthy. 

4# Improved Digestion 

In keeping your gut system healthy, avocados also play a significant role. Avocados are full of digestive fibers which add bulk to the stool. 

Thus the fibers help regulate the bowel regularly and enhance digestion thereby. Moreover, avocados prevent constipation, lower the risk of colon cancer, and prevent indigestion. 

5# Good For Vision Health 

Adding avocado to your diet can also be beneficial for the vision of the person. Avocados are a good source of beta-carotene and antioxidants which play a significant role in maintaining eye health. 

Moreover, avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin-two phytochemicals that protect the eye from the ultraviolet rays. The high vitamin A content of the avocado reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration. 

6# Reduces Depression

Avocados are also a rich source of folate which helps in reducing depression. The folate content of the avocados prevents the formation of homocysteine, the substance impairing blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the brain. Moreover, avocados help in sleep and mood pattern regulation. 

7# Makes The Skin Shiny 

Being a powerhouse of minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, avocados help in keeping the skin healthy. The vitamin C and vitamin E content of the avocado offers the skin a natural glow. 

8# Anti-Inflammatory Properties 

Avocados are the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, and plant hormones like stigmasterol and beta-sitosterol which have anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing the internal inflammation of the body. Moreover, they are also a great help in keeping the inflammation under control. 

9# Useful For Pregnant Woman 

Avocados are also greatly useful for pregnant women. As avocados are a good source of folate, pregnant women should add avocados to their diets as folate helps in the healthy development of the fetus. Moreover, it also reduces the risk of neural tube defects and miscarriages.

Health Benefits Of Banana

The bananas are a pack of nutritional punch that provides an array of benefits to one’s human health. Here we will highlight some of the benefits of the banana. 

1# Great Source Of Vitamins And Minerals 

Bananas are a great source of vitamins and minerals for instance potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. 

Vitamin C content of the banana acts as an antioxidant which protects the cells from free radicals. Potassium helps in maintaining blood pressure whereas vitamin B6 is essential for red blood cell production. 

2# Good For Heart Health 

Bananas are the heart-healthy choice as they contain dietary fibers. It reduces cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Moreover, the potassium content helps in the function of the heart. 

3# Regulates The Blood Pressure 

Bananas are also a good option for regulating blood pressure levels as they have low GI or glycemic index. That means that the banana will not cause a rapid spike in sugar levels in the blood. 

So, for people with diabetes or who are conscious of maintaining their blood sugar level, the banana can be an excellent choice. 

4# Rich In Antioxidants 

Antioxidants protect your body from the damage caused by the free radicals and the bananas are a good source of it. 

Free radicals cause chronic diseases in the body and the antioxidant component of the banana helps to prevent the body from this damage. 

5# Improves Digestion 

Bananas are also enriched with soluble and insoluble fibers which improve the digestion system of the body. 

Where the soluble fibers regulate the blood sugar level and reduce the cholesterol levels, the insoluble fibers soften the stools and regulate the intestinal movements. 

Closing Up! Are Avocados And Bananas Related? 

So, are avocados and bananas related? In the plant world, bananas and avocados aren’t even closely related. Where avocados are members of the Lauraceae family, the banana is part of the Musaceae family. 

In spite of their distinct difference, they both bring a pack of health to your table. Avocados and bananas can be a nutrient-rich addition to your healthy diet. 

So, whether you are enjoying the creamy goodness of the avocados or the natural sweetness and simplicity of the banana, for a well-balanced lifestyle, both of them contribute their own nutritional value.