Vatsal Shah, a 17-year-old student at Raffles World Academy in Dubai, recently achieved an incredible feat by shedding 70kg in just 18 months and successfully overcoming Type 2 diabetes. His journey from childhood obesity to a healthier life is truly inspiring.
Shah’s battle with obesity began early in life, with health issues such as hypertension and diabetes diagnosed before he reached the age of 10. By the time he turned 13 in August 2020, Shah weighed 140kg, carrying a BMI of 47, categorizing him as obese. Fast forward to the present, and he has transformed his physique, weighing in at 73kg with a normal BMI of 23. 
The turning point came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Shah’s weight-related concerns worsened, leading to additional health complications like sleep apnea. Determined to take control of his health, Shah adopted a new mindset that set him on a transformative journey.
Facing initial challenges with low stamina that hindered high-intensity cardio, Shah began his weight-loss journey with swimming, gradually improving his fitness level. With unwavering support from his parents, Shah made significant changes to his diet, eliminating fatty and junk foods, and opting for leaner meals supplemented with nuts and protein chips.
Overcoming moments of weakness and occasional lapses in willpower, Shah persevered, experiencing not only a physical transformation but also a boost in confidence. As his self-esteem rose, so did his academic performance, turning him into a topper in Grade 10.
Eager to inspire others, Shah started sharing his fitness journey on Instagram (@fitness_freak_), amassing over 15,000 followers. He extended his outreach by launching a website featuring workout videos and collaborated with establishments in the UAE to form a community of over 15,000 individuals.
Shah didn’t stop there; he delivered a TEDx talk at Raffles World Academy and authored a book titled “Rebirth of Strength,” sharing his experiences and offering guidance on achieving good health. A portion of the book’s sales goes to the Access Life Foundation in India to support schoolchildren.
Driven by a passion for health advocacy, Shah collaborated with hospitals in India and Kenya, organizing mindfulness sessions for patients and connecting them with health experts. His global impact has reached countries like India, Kenya, Singapore, Brazil, Bahrain, and the UK.
In Shah’s own words, “I hope that my work elevates global health awareness and benefits as many people as possible.” His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration for those struggling with weight-related issues and underscores the power of determination and positive lifestyle changes.