An apple a day is said to keep the doctor away, but a new study featured on Prevention.com says that it may also help you shed those extra pounds. Apparently, apples contain non-digestive compounds, which serve as food for your body’s good bacteria. In turn, they keep the bad bacteria, which feed on junk food, from taking over. This balance helps reduce the risk of obesity and inflammation, and even makes you feel fuller for longer.

“Obese people have an out-of-balance gut,” says lead study author Giuliana Noratto. “So changing our gut bacteria via what we eat, making it similar to that of a lean person, could help prevent weight gain.”

So the next time you’re feeling hungry, munch on an apple instead. It’s not just healthy; it’s good for maintaining your weight as well.

(Photo by Kabsik Park via Flickr Creative Commons)