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Khaleej Times
12-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE's weight loss challenge: Why Ramadan is the best time for residents to shed kilos, win prize
Losing weight and getting in shape just got a lot better, as the UAE's biggest weight loss challenge aligns with Ramadan, a month where fasting naturally supports weight loss. With controlled eating and mindful food choices in practice, participants have the perfect opportunity to shed extra kilos. The UAE's annual weight loss challenge returns this February, allowing residents to win up to Dh300 per kilogram lost. Now in its fifth year, the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) will run for 12 weeks, from February 21 to May 22. Doctors said that with fasting already promoting mindful eating, portion control and healthier food choices, Ramadan is an ideal time to kick-start a weight loss journey. 'Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan has numerous advantages, such as improving portion control, encouraging the selection of nutritious food and enhancing insulin sensitivity,' said Dr H S Wilkhoo, lifestyle coach at RAK Hospital. 'When approached mindfully, fasting in Ramadan can be a catalyst for positive lifestyle changes, leading to long-term health benefits.' Dr Wilkhoo highlighted how fasting aligns with the principles of intermittent fasting, naturally restricting calorie intake and improving metabolic health. 'Intermittent fasting enhances insulin sensitivity, which is especially beneficial for individuals with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome. It also promotes food awareness and better portion control after Ramadan.' To maximise the benefits of fasting while ensuring long-term weight management, Dr Wilkhoo recommended residents to do the following: Staying hydrated from Iftar to Suhoor to support bodily functions. Choosing nutrient-rich foods, including lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. Eating in moderation during Iftar to prevent overeating. Chewing food properly to aid digestion and prevent cramping. Engaging in light physical activities, such as walking after meals to enhance muscle absorption. However, he warned against certain habits that could hinder weight loss efforts. 'Skipping Suhoor or overeating at Iftar can slow metabolism and increase calorie storage. It is also essential to avoid excessive sugary and fried foods, as well as excessive caffeine intake, which can increase thirst and disrupt insulin sensitivity.' Foods to avoid during Suhoor Dr Ekramulla Mohamed Ali, MBBS, MD, General Physician at WeCare Medical Centre, Karama, noted the foods that should be avoided during Suhoor to ensure a smoother fasting experience. 'Eating high-sugar foods like pastries and sugary cereals might provide an initial energy boost, but they lead to a crash later, leaving you hungrier,' said Dr Ali. 'Similarly, fried foods can cause gastritis and increase thirst during the day.' He also said that salty snacks, caffeinated beverages and spicy foods can lead to dehydration and digestive discomfort. 'Cruciferous vegetables and excessive legumes, while healthy, may cause bloating, making fasting uncomfortable.' Balanced Ramadan diet For sustained energy levels, Dr Ali recommended focusing on complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables during Suhoor. 'Include lean proteins such as eggs, fish or chicken to keep you full for longer. Healthy fats like avocados and nuts also aid satiety,' said Dr Ali. At Iftar, he suggested starting with dates and water for quick energy replenishment, followed by fiber-rich foods and healthy fats to maintain balanced nutrition. 'Eating, resting and exercising strategically is key. Plan your activities and meals wisely to ensure your body is replenished and prepared for the next day of fasting,' said Dr Ali.
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Health
- Zawya
RAK Hospital launches 5th edition of the UAE's biggest weight loss challenge with a new family category
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top male and female winners, with AED 300 per kilogram of weight lost for first place, AED 200 for second place, and AED 100 for third place Registration for the 3-month-long challenge opens on February 10, 2025 Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – Leading a crucial health movement and encouraging the community to create a culture of wellness, RAK Hospital in association with Ministry of Health & Prevention Ras Al Khaimah is excited to announce the return of its flagship RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) for 2025, a transformative initiative aimed at tackling one of the world's most pressing health concerns—obesity. Now in its 5th year, this year's challenge introduces a new Family Category to encourage families to work together toward better health, making it a more inclusive and community-driven event. This 12-week initiative, running from February 21 to May 22, 2025, invites families across the country to join forces in the battle against obesity. With over 2 billion adults classified as overweight worldwide and 650 million as obese (according to the World Health Organization), the UAE has not escaped the crisis. In fact, nearly 40% of adults and 40% of children in the UAE are affected by obesity, contributing to a rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge seeks to change this alarming trajectory. 'We are thrilled to bring back the RBWLC for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist—introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. 'The family unit is the cornerstone of society, and when families come together to embrace healthier habits, they not only improve their own health but also create a positive ripple effect within their communities.' 'Our initiative has gained significant attention, not only within the UAE but globally, with participants from various countries expressing interest in joining the challenge. We are proud to host such a large-scale contest that is transforming lives on an international level. Plans are already underway to explore how we can expand the challenge to reach a wider audience. In previous years, we have proven that lifestyle changes can profoundly impact health, and our winners, along with their families, have experienced the lasting benefits of being part of this life-changing movement.' The Family Category encourages parents, children, and even extended family members to participate together, committing to a healthier lifestyle as a team. This approach not only promotes accountability but makes the weight loss journey more engaging, fun, and sustainable for everyone involved—no matter their age. The decision to introduce the new Family Category reflects RAK Hospital's recognition that lasting change begins at home. 'We've been proactive in encouraging more people to join this movement, continuously introducing new elements with each edition. Last year, we launched the School Category, inviting students and staff to participate as a team. This year, we're excited to introduce the Family Category. When families align with common health goals, it creates a supportive environment for sustainable change. Children learn healthy habits, and adults find strength in working together toward a shared objective,' said Prof. Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at Arabian Wellness and Lifestyle Management, the wellness division of RAK Hospital. Registration for the 2025 RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) is now open,with participants invited to sign up for free on the official competition website Participants can choose from several categories based on their preference and goals: Physical Challenge: Weigh-in at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. Virtual Challenge: Weigh-in at a local clinic of their choice. Corporate Team Challenge: Companies can form teams, with the top 10 employees' average weight loss determining the winning team. School Weight Loss Team: This category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. Also the school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys & girls) will be recognized. Family Category: New for 2025, families can now compete together as a team. This encourages families to work together on their health journey; participants can register in either the Physical or Virtual challenge. The 2025 RBWL Challenge offers exciting prizes and recognition across multiple categories. In the Physical Category, the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of AED 300, AED 200, and AED 100 per kilogram of weight lost. The Virtual Category rewards participants win staycations, health packages, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. In the Corporate Team Challenge, the winning team will receive the prestigious RBWLC25 Corporate Trophy, while the School Weight Loss Team will compete for the RBWLC25 School Weight Loss Team Trophy. The Family Category (new for 2025) encourages families to join as a team, winning an array of lifestyle vouchers. The RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge represents RAK Hospital's ongoing commitment to improving public health. By raising awareness about obesity and providing practical tools, support, and education, the hospital is driving meaningful change. The challenge is more than just a competition—it's a movement aimed at fostering a culture of wellness that extends beyond the event itself and into everyday life. Prepare for the transformative journey! Weigh-ins for the Physical Category participants are scheduled from Feb 21-23, 2025 at RAK Hospital. Virtual participants can weigh in at their local clinic, and Corporate Teams and Schools can register as teams to embark on this health-focused adventure. For more information about the challenge, including how to register and details about the categories, visit
Gulf News
10-02-2025
- Health
- Gulf News
Win cash prizes with UAE's Biggest Weight Loss Challenge
Ras Al Khaimah: Residents now have the opportunity to lose weight and win cash prizes in the UAE. RAK Hospital in association with Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHP) Ras Al Khaimah on Monday announced the return of its flagship RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) for 2025, a transformative initiative aimed at tackling one of the world's most pressing health concerns — obesity. Now in its 5th year, this year's challenge introduces a new family category to encourage families to work together toward better health, making it a more inclusive and community-driven event. This 12-week initiative, running from February 21 to May 22, 2025, invites families across the country to join forces in the battle against obesity. 'We are thrilled to bring back the weight loss challenge for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist — introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital. 'The family unit is the cornerstone of society, and when families come together to embrace healthier habits, they not only improve their own health but also create a positive ripple effect within their communities.' The Challenge offers exciting prizes and recognition across multiple categories. In the Physical Category, the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of Dh300, Dh200, and Dh100 per kilogram of weight lost. The Family Category encourages parents, children, and even extended family members to participate together, committing to a healthier lifestyle as a team. This approach not only promotes accountability but makes the weight loss journey more engaging, fun, and sustainable for everyone involved — no matter their age. 'We have been proactive in encouraging more people to join this movement, continuously introducing new elements with each edition. Last year, we launched the School Category, inviting students and staff to participate as a team. This year, we're excited to introduce the Family Category. When families align with common health goals, it creates a supportive environment for sustainable change. Children learn healthy habits, and adults find strength in working together toward a shared objective,' said Prof. Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at Arabian Wellness and Lifestyle Management, the wellness division of RAK Hospital. Registration for the weight loss challenge is now open, with participants invited to sign up for free on the official competition website. Participants can choose from several categories based on their preference and goals: Physical Challenge: Weigh-in at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. Virtual Challenge: Weigh-in at a local clinic of their choice. Corporate Team Challenge: Companies can form teams, with the top 10 employees' average weight loss determining the winning team. School Weight Loss Team: This category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. Also the school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys & girls) will be recognised. Family Category: New for 2025, families can now compete together as a team. This encourages families to work together on their health journey; participants can register in either the Physical or Virtual challenge. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
Khaleej Times
10-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Win up to Dh300 for every kilo you lose as weight loss challenge returns with new category
You can win up to Dh300 per each kilogramme you lose as the UAE's annual weight loss challenge returns this February. Now in its fifth year, the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge (RBWLC) will run for 12 weeks from February 21 to May 22. Registration for the challenge is now open, with participants invited to sign up for free. This year, organisers have added a new category encouraging families to work together. In the 'physical category', the top male and female participants will receive cash prizes of Dh300, Dh200, and Dh100 per kilogramme of weight lost. The 'virtual category' rewards participants with staycations, health packages, dining vouchers, and gym memberships. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. According to RAK Hospital, nearly 40 per cent of adults and 40 per cent of children in the UAE are affected by obesity, contributing to a rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. 'We are thrilled to bring back the RBWLC for its 5th year, and this time with an exciting twist — introducing a Family Category to make the challenge even more inclusive,' said Dr Raza Siddiqui, executive director of RAK Hospital. 'Our initiative has gained significant attention, not only within the UAE but globally, with participants from various countries expressing interest in joining the challenge. Plans are already underway to explore how we can expand the challenge to reach a wider audience.' The new 'family category' encourages parents, children, and extended family members to participate together. Participants can register for either the physical or virtual challenge. They stand to win lifestyle vouchers. The physical category requires participants to have weight checks at RAK Hospital at both the start and end of the challenge. For the virtual one, weigh-in can be done at a local clinic. In the corporate team challenge, the top 10 employees' average weight loss determines the winning team. The 'school weight loss' category invites teams of 10 or more staff members from schools to compete. The school with the lowest average BMI recorded for its children (boys and girls) will be recognised. Both these categories will see trophies awarded.
