With spring approaching and clothing layers thinning out if you're feeling the bulge, your weight-loss answer could be closer to home than you think.

The New York Apple Association has released a book, “The New York Apple Advantage: A Sensible Guide to Healthy Eating,” on the health and weight-loss benefits of incorporating apples into one's diet.

Low calorie apples are a proven ally in the diet wars, according to the New York Apple Association.

“Don't be shaped like an apple, let our apples shape you,” said Linda Quinn, a registered dietitian and author of the book.

In the book, she suggests to eat New York apples to displace high calorie meals. The idea, she says, is to bulk up on high-fiber, high water foods, like apples, so one feels more full and will thus eat less and be more likely to lose weight.

Quinn, of Syracuse, is a certified dietitian-nutritionist and an active member of the American Dietetic Association.

She holds a master's degree in nutrition sciences from Syracuse University, and she currently serves as the nutrition services administrator for the Central New York Developmental Services Office, supervising nutrition services.

The book also contains helpful weight-loss advice, menus and apple-themed recipes.

“What makes this plan different from other books is that it's not a quick weight-loss plan you go on for a month and abandon by spring,” Quinn said in a press release. “It is a Mediterranean Diet with a New York twist.”

If you read

What: “The New York Apple Advantage: A Sensible Guide to Healthy Eating”

Who: Linda J. Quinn

Publisher: New York Apple Association

Cost: $4.28

To order online: Visit www.nyapplecountry.com