International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, serving as an opportunity to advocate for gender equality, celebrate the accomplishments of women around the world and highlight women’s rights, including women’s health.

In commemoration of this day, we’re spotlighting women physicians from Dignity Health Medical Groups who have contributed greatly to their respective practices and passing along their professional insight within their specialities in support of overall women’s health.

January is National Thyroid Awareness Month and it’s an important reminder to pay attention to one of the most vital parts of our body. Tarandeep Kaur, MD, an endocrinologist with Dignity Health Medical Group – Stockton, shares the signs and symptoms to ensure your thyroid is properly functioning and your health is on track.

Dr. Harshit Shah is an endocrinologist with Dignity Health Medical Group in Bakersfield and is passionate about advising patients on the best diets to manage conditions like diabetes. 

Based on the evidence, I recommend a whole food, plant-based diet, which is low in fat, and high in minimally processed and whole foods, for a healthy living. These days, nutrition labels and food labels can be very confusing, so I'd like to share some tips!

1. Focus on Foods Without Labels
It is a great goal to try to only eat foods that do not require labels. You want your refrigerator and pantry to be full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy nuts, and legumes. Most of these items can be purchased without packaging (unless the package just functions to hold single ingredient like beans), which is another plus!

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of certain hormones. It’s estimated that nearly 5 percent of the U.S. population over the age of 12 may be living with hypothyroidism. Below, Dr. Harshit Shah, an endocrinologist with Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield, explains how hypothyroidism can impact weight gain. 

Hot climates are not the most forgiving, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. During the peak of summer, high temperatures can be difficult for anyone to deal with. For those with diabetes, the heat can be even more troubling. Dr. Harshit Shah, an endocrinologist with Dignity Health Medical Group – Bakersfield, answers important questions related to managing diabetes in the heat. [Skip to video]