The Abs Diet is not just going to change your life -- it will save it.

Those are the inspirational words of author David Zinczenko. The editor-in-chief of Men's Health magazine promises that you will be able to transform your abs in just six weeks -- if you follow his program complete with a healthy eating, exercise and motivational plan. Once you finish the six-week program, you will move into the lifetime maintenance phase.

The aim of the Abs Diet is to get rid of fat while adding muscle. By building muscle the body burns more calories throughout the day, even when you are resting. As for results, expect to drop 12 pounds of fat within two weeks, a majority of which will come right from your stomach.

For most people struggling to lose weight, tightening the tummy can be one of the biggest obstacles. Studies show that belly fat is among the most dangerous since it increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some types of cancer. The Abs Diet attempts to eliminate the waistline bulge, thereby improving overall wellness.

The recipe for slimming success is a manageable exercise regimen of 30 minutes three times each week, along with consuming six meals a day. Be ready to eat throughout the day, consuming a small snack two hours before your main meals.

Zinczenko recommends 12 groups of foods and explains that each meal should contain at least two or three of the foods from this list: almonds and other nuts, beans and legumes, spinach and other green vegetables, dairy (fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese), Instant oatmeal (unsweetened, unflavored), eggs, turkey and other lean meats, peanut butter, olive oil, whole-grain breads and cereals, extra-protein powder and raspberries and other berries. On the Abs Diet, you are encouraged to eat three snacks which should contain at least one of the power of 12 foods in each serving.

The Abs Diet emphasizes protein, monounsaturated and polyunsatured fats, fiber and calcium -- all of the elements which prevent heart disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and other ailments. By chocking your diet full of the Abs Diet recommendations you will be less likely to feel the hunger that often accompanies most weight-loss programs.

There are also plenty of benefits attached to strengthening your abs. You'll improve your sex life, prevent injuries, limit your aches and pains, and be more robust in any physical activity in which you engage. But eating right is only half of this two-part plan-- you have got to get physical too.

Zinczenko has also created a total-body strength training workout that focuses on the larger muscles groups - the chest, back and legs. The workout also ask for light cardiovascular exercises such as walking for 30 to 45 minutes at a brisk pace.

In addition to the book, there is also an online component which allows you to customize the program to your wants, needs and nutritional preferences.