An 'Apple A Day' Could Help Keep Obesity Away

An apple a day could help to keep the doctor away, at least as far as obesity is concerned, according to recent findings published in the journal Food Chemistry.

"We know that, in general, apples are a good source of these non-digestible compounds but there are differences in varieties," lead researcher Giuliana Noratto, of Washington State University, said in a news release. "Results from this study will help consumers to discriminate between apple varieties that can aid in the fight against obesity."

Researchers have discovered that eating more apples, which contain abundant non-digestible compounds, can help to decrease the risk of obesity and certain disorders associated with this health issue.

Furthermore, previous studies have even shown that the risk of obesity and related health conditions can be reduced with the consumption of Grann Smith apples, as the boost beneficial bacteria in the colon. These apples contain high amounts of non-digestible compounds that include dietary fiber and polyphenols with low amounts of carbohydrates that prevent high amounts of glucose from entering the blood stream-commonly associated with weight gain.

On a similar note, researchers found that Granny Smith apples contain more non-digestible compounds than Braeburn, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, McIntosh and Red Delicious apples.

"The nondigestible compounds in the Granny Smith apples actually changed the proportions of fecal bacteria from obese mice to be similar to that of lean mice," Noratto added. "What determines the balance of bacteria in our colon is the food we consume."

With future testing, the study authors said they believe that their latest findings could help prevent health conditions associated with obesity like diabetes and even heart disease.