Diet fads come and go, but the hCG diet has been around for at least four decades, according to a study of the diet published in the Western Journal of Medicine in 1977.

Ascites and belly fat are two distinct conditions that can cause enlargement of your belly, or abdomen. Ascites commonly indicates the presence of significant liver disease, but may also result from a number of other serious medical conditions.

A good breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day -- it should keep you satisfied for hours after eating to prevent midmorning cravings, offer energy to keep you alert and provide essential nutrients to help you avoid a deficiency.

To lose weight, you must consume fewer calories than you burn each day. This is called creating a caloric deficit, and it is the basic foundation of most diet and exercise plans.

While it’s a common belief that eating unlimited amounts of fruits and vegetables can help you lose weight, studies proving this as a fact are limited, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Exercises that promise to melt your middle are a staple in fitness magazines and on websites. Although these moves might make you feel the burn while they're developing the musculature of your abdominals, they won't rid you of the fat that covers your abs.

Wheybolic Extreme 60 is a high-protein supplement manufactured by sports nutrition retailer GNC. The manufacturer recommends taking Wheybolic Extreme 60 twice daily, but using the product as directed may inhibit your efforts to lose weight.

Losing weight can be a daunting task for anyone. Dieting safely and gradually will ensure that the weight comes off quickly and stays off. Never reduce your caloric intake below 1200 calories per day. Weight loss does require taking in fewer calories and increasing caloric expenditure.

Edamame are green soybeans that contain essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, vitamin C, folate and vitamin E. Available fresh or frozen, the beans can be prepared by cooking and shelling them, and you can eat them on their own or in Asian-style recipes.

Many athletes wish to lose weight to become faster and get themselves in better shape for the upcoming season. Combining the right foods with the proper amount of training will help you drop excess weight and allow you to become a more effective player.

Of all the ways to lose weight, drinking water may be one of the easiest. It's calorie-free, helps fill you up and may even help your body burn more calories.

Columbia University estimates that you need to burn 3,500 calories for every 1 pound you want to lose. If you burn 1,500 calories in one day, you could lose 1 pound in less than three days.