BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Teenagers struggling with a few extra pounds might get assistance from a simple bathroom scale.

According to new research from the University of Minnesota, adolescents who weighed themselves at least once a week had better weight control and healthier habits than those who didn't use the scale as often.

Doctors studied 130 teenagers who were moderately overweight and found that those who regularly used a scale weighed an average of seven pounds less and were less likely to eat junk food or meals with saturated fats.

Self-weighers also exercised more and were nearly five times as likely to follow a structured diet.

Experts said the scale provides valuable feedback to teens, allowing them to make changes in their eating behavior before their clothes get too tight.

Past studies have also shown that frequent weighing helps dieters keep the pounds off over the long-term.