Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Avocado vs Quinoa: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Avocado has 160 calories while Quinoa has 120 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Quinoa

120 kcal

More Protein

Quinoa

4.4g

More Fiber

Avocado

7g

Less Sugar

Avocado

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Avocado
160
Quinoa
120
Proteinper 100g
Avocado
3g
Quinoa
4.4g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Avocado
9g
Quinoa
21g
Fatper 100g
Avocado
15g
Quinoa
1.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientAvocadoQuinoaDifference
Calories160kcal120kcal+40.0kcal
Protein3g4.4g-1.4g
Carbohydrates9g21g-12.0g
Fat15g1.9g+13.1g
Fiber7g2.8g+4.2g
Sugar0.7g1.6g-0.9g
Sodium7mg7mg0.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Avocado

Per 100g:160 calories
Per cup (150g):240 calories
Per serving (85g):136 calories

Quinoa

Per 100g:120 calories
Per cup (150g):180 calories
Per serving (85g):102 calories

Diet Compatibility

Avocado

Low-CarbVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Quinoa

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Avocado

  • More fiber (7g vs 2.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (9g vs 21g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 1.6g)
  • Lower sodium (7mg vs 7mg)

Common Uses

Fresh snacksSmoothiesDessertsBreakfast bowls
View full Avocado nutrition →

When to Choose Quinoa

  • Lower in calories (120 vs 160)
  • Higher in protein (4.4g vs 3g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Quinoa nutrition →

Avocado vs Quinoa: Nutritional Analysis

Avocado is more calorie-dense at 160 calories per 100g compared to 120 for Quinoa, a difference of 40 calories. On the protein front, Quinoa delivers more with 4.4g per 100g versus 3g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Avocado and Quinoa tell different nutritional stories. Avocado provides 9g of carbohydrates, 15g of fat, and 7g of fiber per 100g, while Quinoa contains 21g carbs, 1.9g fat, and 2.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Avocado supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Avocado contains 0.7g while Quinoa has 1.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Quinoa is the lower-calorie choice at 120 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Quinoa provides more protein (4.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Avocado offers more fiber (7g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Avocado or Quinoa?

Avocado has more calories with 160 kcal per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 120 kcal. That's a difference of 40 calories per 100g serving.

Is Avocado healthier than Quinoa?

Avocado and Quinoa have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Avocado and Quinoa?

Quinoa has more protein with 4.4g per 100g, compared to Avocado with 3g. Quinoa provides 1.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Avocado or Quinoa?

For weight loss, Quinoa is the better choice with only 120 calories per 100g compared to 160 calories in Avocado. Avocado also offers 7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Avocado or Quinoa have fewer carbs?

Avocado has fewer carbs with 9g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 21g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Avocado is the better option with 12.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.