According to new research, it just might. As long as you eat the right kind.
If you want to feel fuller, longer, simply eat an apple. A Granny Smith to be exact. At least that's what a team of researchers from Washington State University is saying. While all apples are a good source of non-digestible compounds, Granny Smith's in particular can help eaters feel full and fast.
After feeding both lean and obese mice seven varieties, researchers found that the tart Granny Smith had the most beneficial effect on good gut bacteria that helps aid with digestion and serves as a barrier to protect our immune systems. In fact, Granny Smith apples, which are high in non-digestible dietary fiber and low in carbs, helped balance out the good bacteria that is often off balance in obese patients.
"The non-digestible fiber in apples, as well as the polyphenols (antioxidant compounds) that are associated with eating apples, changes gut bacteria to the same types of 'friendly' bacteria," explains Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, nutrition director of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute.
Researchers also found that eating Granny Smith's can help combat against chronic inflammation, which can lead to diabetes. "Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, but are also high in water content — which can help you stay full, not to mention hydrated," says London. "I have at least one Granny Smith a day. Always."