Dr. Pooja Gidwani

Dr. Pooja Gidwani šŸ“LA / NYC
šŸ„¼ Personalized Medicine
šŸ‘©ā€āš•ļø Double Board-Certified Internal & Obesity Medicine
šŸ©ŗ Weight Loss ā€¢ Skin Care ā€¢ Primary Care ā€¢ Concierge Medicine

Did you know thereā€™s actually a form of stress that can help you live longer? Meet hormesis. Hormesis happens when small...
01/03/2025

Did you know thereā€™s actually a form of stress that can help you live longer? Meet hormesis.

Hormesis happens when small, controlled stressors - like heat from saunas or cold exposure - push your body to repair and get stronger.

šŸ”„ SAUNAS šŸ”„

- Lower cardiovascular disease risk by up to 40% and stroke risk by 50%.
- Trigger heat shock proteins to repair damaged cells and reduce inflammation.
- Boost growth hormone by 5x, aiding metabolism and recovery.

ā„ļø COLD EXPOSURE ā„ļø

- Activates brown fat, which modestly burns calories and improves glucose regulation.
- Enhances insulin sensitivity by 40%, reducing your risk of metabolic disease.
- Lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing chronic inflammation and supporting immunity.

Pro Tip: A cold shower for just 2ā€“3 minutes can still activate many of these benefits if you donā€™t have access to cryotherapy or a cold plunge.

Which one would you try first?

Sources (PMIDs): 25705824, 29769284, 10958430, 20962772, 20463231, 30683896

I found this in my notes from October 2021, about a year before I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I rememb...
12/31/2024

I found this in my notes from October 2021, about a year before I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I remember walking into the hospital every day with a vision - to fix the system, to make sure no patient ever died because of red tape or broken processes. I believed I could create change.

But the deeper I went, the more I realized that this system wasnā€™t built to change. It was built to survive on inefficiency, bureaucracy, and outdated rules. For now.

So I made one of the hardest decision Iā€™ve ever made. To stop fighting the unfixable and create something new. A system where patients come first, where their care isnā€™t dictated by insurance or bureaucracy.

What we need is a fresh perspective on healthcare. Progressive leaders with bold ideas and the courage to break the cycle. Thatā€™s how we create real, lasting change.

As 2025 approaches, I still hope our healthcare system improves, that lives will no longer be lost to its failures. But until then, Iā€™ll keep doing what I know works. Caring for patients the way they deserve, with no red tape and no compromises.

Imagine reading this in your medical chart: ā€œFailed diet and exercise.ā€ā€œFailed non-medication treatments.ā€As a doctor, I...
12/30/2024

Imagine reading this in your medical chart:

ā€œFailed diet and exercise.ā€

ā€œFailed non-medication treatments.ā€

As a doctor, Iā€™ve seen how words like ā€œfailedā€ can leave patients feeling ashamed and defeated. The truth is that health is complex. Itā€™s not about success or failure, itā€™s about finding what works for you.

This is just one example of how medical language can unintentionally shame patients. There are so many other terms that need to change too: words like non-compliant, morbid obesity, and refused care.

Words matter. They can either empower patients to take the next step or make them feel like giving up. We need to embrace language that uplifts and supports.

What do you think? Should we start rethinking how we speak to and about patients? Drop your thoughts below.šŸ‘‡

If youā€™re starting or already on a GLP-1 agonist and noticing hair loss, itā€™s not the medication. It could be due to ina...
12/27/2024

If youā€™re starting or already on a GLP-1 agonist and noticing hair loss, itā€™s not the medication.

It could be due to inadequate intake of protein and nutrients, which can happen if you are not eating enough. It could also be because of rapid weight loss, which causes Telogen effluvium. This pushes hair follicles into a shedding phase.

Hereā€™s how to manage it:

- Protein Intake: Hair is made of keratin. Eating 0.8-1g of protein per pound of body weight gives your body the building blocks it needs for healthy growth.

- Slow Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss shocks the system, triggering temporary hair shedding. A steady pace reduces this risk.

- Nutrients: Iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins support hair follicle health and growth cycles. Deficiencies can worsen hair thinning during weight loss.

If hair loss continues, talk to your doctor about oral or topical treatments like minoxidil to promote regrowth and protect your hair.

Did you know potassium helps regulate sodium and protect your heart?šŸ«€Holiday dishes like casseroles, ham, and charcuteri...
12/23/2024

Did you know potassium helps regulate sodium and protect your heart?šŸ«€Holiday dishes like casseroles, ham, and charcuterie boards are packed with sodium, which can raise blood pressure if not balanced.

āœ”ļø Potassium works by helping your body manage fluid levels and keeping blood pressure stable.
āœ”ļø Add sweet potatoes, spinach, or oranges to meals to restore balance.

Balancing sodium doesnā€™t mean eating more of it. You still need to keep your sodium intake in check. Talk to your doctor to see whatā€™s best for your health this holiday season. šŸŽ…

Iron is essential for ensuring your body has oxygen-rich blood, but how you take it matters. šŸ©øPair iron with vitamin C (...
12/22/2024

Iron is essential for ensuring your body has oxygen-rich blood, but how you take it matters. šŸ©ø

Pair iron with vitamin C (like oranges or bell peppers) to boost absorption. Avoid coffee, tea, or calcium at the same time.

Spinach, lentils, sardines, salmon, red meat, and oysters are great sourcesā€”just to name a few.

PRO TIP: 3 oz, or just 3-6 oysters pack 8 mg of ironā€”nutritious and indulgent. Happy hour anyone?! šŸ¦Ŗ

Visceral fat is the type of fat that wraps around your organs, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and chron...
12/19/2024

Visceral fat is the type of fat that wraps around your organs, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation. Itā€™s one of the most dangerous indicators of metabolic health.

As a double board-certified physician with an emphasis on weight loss to reduce comorbidities and improve body composition, I focus on identifying and reducing this silent threat in patients. GLP-1 medications are showing promising outcomes, decreasing visceral fat by up to 20%. Trust me, weight loss is not just about appearance. Itā€™s about protecting vital organs and improving long-term health outcomes.

Taking Vitamin D without K2 could harm your heart. šŸ’”Vitamin D boosts calcium absorption, but hereā€™s the issue: without K...
12/18/2024

Taking Vitamin D without K2 could harm your heart. šŸ’”

Vitamin D boosts calcium absorption, but hereā€™s the issue: without K2, that calcium can build up in your arteries instead of your bones. This raises the risk of arterial calcification and plaque formation, which can impact your heart health.

Vitamin K2 ensures calcium is sent to your bones and teeth, not your arteries, by activating proteins that prevent calcification.

If youā€™re supplementing with Vitamin D, especially at higher doses, make sure you pair it with K2 to protect both your bones and your heart.

Talk to your doctor about whatā€™s right for you. šŸ«€Check out the Fullscript link in my bio for my recommended Vitamin D supplement.

This past year, did you notice how often your health was pushed aside? Fatigue, weight changes, or symptoms like bloatin...
12/16/2024

This past year, did you notice how often your health was pushed aside? Fatigue, weight changes, or symptoms like bloating or brain fog might have felt frustrating; but manageable. Until they started to add up.

Itā€™s easy to feel like youā€™re on your own when things donā€™t feel right, especially when time is limited, and finding answers feels overwhelming. But your health shouldnā€™t stay in the background waiting for the ā€œright moment.ā€

In my practice, Iā€™ve seen how addressing underlying issues, not just the surface symptoms, can help patients regain control, clarity, and confidence. Itā€™s about progress that works with your body and your life., not perfection.

If this past year left you feeling stuck, letā€™s make 2025 the year you prioritize your health and get the care and answers you deserve.

Regain control over your health, body, and mind. Click on the link in my bio to join the waitlist for transformative changes starting January 2025.

Creatine has been debated for years, but science backs its benefits for both brain and muscle health. Studies show it ca...
12/12/2024

Creatine has been debated for years, but science backs its benefits for both brain and muscle health. Studies show it can enhance memory, focus, and energy production while supporting muscle recovery and reducing age-related muscle loss.

A few things to know:
āœ”ļø Start with a lower dose (e.g., 2-3g daily) if youā€™re new to it, and work up to 5g for full benefits.
āœ”ļø It can cause mild bloating in some people.
āœ”ļø Stop supplementing before labs, as it may raise creatinine levels (a kidney function marker) without harming your kidneys.
āœ”ļø Consistency matters more than timing, but pairing with carbs can enhance absorption.

Talk to your doctor to ensure it fits your health and goals.

PMID: 17361669, 28615996, 36744019

Did you know vitamin D and omega-3s have a synergistic effect on inflammation?Vitamin D helps activate enzymes that conv...
12/09/2024

Did you know vitamin D and omega-3s have a synergistic effect on inflammation?

Vitamin D helps activate enzymes that convert omega-3s (EPA and DHA) into resolvins and protectins aka specialized molecules that reduce inflammation and support tissue repair. In turn, omega-3s enhance the function of vitamin D receptors, improving how cells respond to vitamin D.

Take them together with healthy fats for optimal absorption and maximum benefit.

One of the greatest joys of practicing concierge medicine isĀ Ā building a connection of deep trust and understanding with...
12/09/2024

One of the greatest joys of practicing concierge medicine isĀ Ā building a connection of deep trust and understanding with my patients. šŸ’•šŸ’• I spend time with them and get to know them so well that I can anticipate their needs, sometimes even before they do.

For startup founders and tech executives balancing high stakes careers, frequent travel, and family life, health feels like another task on a never ending to-do list. Theyā€™re already so busy focusing on providing for as long as possible and taking care of others more than they do themselves - and thatā€™s where I come in.

Iā€™m never just their doctor - Iā€™m their partner, their friend, and I treat them like theyā€™re family. Unlimited appointments, 24/7 access, and being just a call or text away meansĀ Iā€™m there any time something doesnā€™t feel right. Or when they need guidance to keep their day-to-day aligned with their ambitions while setting them up for longevity.

Posted with permission. I am beyond grateful to work with such inspiring clients who trust me with their care and their future. My waitlist is open for January. Email [email protected] to join the waitlist. Letā€™s build the foundation for your success and well-being. āœØ

Did you know your vitamin D is practically useless without magnesium? Magnesium activates vitamin D, helping it support ...
12/06/2024

Did you know your vitamin D is practically useless without magnesium? Magnesium activates vitamin D, helping it support your bones, mood, and immune health.

Magnesium acts as a cofactor for the enzymes that convert vitamin D into its active form in the liver and kidneys. Hereā€™s how to optimize them:

1ļøāƒ£ Magnesium first: Take magnesium glycinate at night to relax and improve sleep or magnesium L-threonate in the morning for focus and brain health.

2ļøāƒ£ Vitamin D: Take it in the morning with a meal containing healthy fats to enhance absorption (itā€™s fat-soluble).

Add magnesium-rich foods like spinach, almonds, seeds, and dark chocolate to your diet for an extra boost and let these nutrients work together seamlessly.

Thanksgiving can feel like a lotā€¦so much food, so many choices. šŸ Itā€™s also such a great time to enjoy, give gratitude, ...
11/28/2024

Thanksgiving can feel like a lotā€¦so much food, so many choices. šŸ Itā€™s also such a great time to enjoy, give gratitude, and spend time with who you love. Hereā€™s how to make the most of it without feeling off after:

āœ… Eat protein before to curb cravings, keep blood sugars regulated, and avoid filling up too early.
āœ… Drink water to curb cravings, boost metabolism and minimize hangovers.
āœ… Focus on the dishes you love, not everything on the table.
āœ… Take a walk after eating to help digestion and blood sugar control.

Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing you a day of good food, great memories, gratitude, and balance. šŸ¦ƒšŸ‚

If youā€™re confused about which type of magnesium to take, I got you. Try THIS simple breakdown: šŸ˜“ MAGNESIUM GLYCINATE: G...
11/05/2024

If youā€™re confused about which type of magnesium to take, I got you. Try THIS simple breakdown:

šŸ˜“ MAGNESIUM GLYCINATE: Good night. A rapidly absorbed form perfect for sleep, muscle relaxation, and reducing anxiety.

šŸ§  MAGNESIUM L-THREONATE: Think. Crosses the blood-brain barrier to support memory and cognitive health. Effective for anxiety and depression.

šŸ’© MAGNESIUM CITRATE: Constipation. Pulls water into the intestines, helping with bowel regularity.

šŸ’Ŗ MAGNESIUM MALATE: Muscle. Boosts energy and soothes muscle pain, especially if fatigue holds you back.

šŸ› MAGNESIUM SULFATE: Soak. Epsom salt for muscle relief and relaxation when absorbed through the skin.

šŸ«€ MAGNESIUM TAURATE: Tone (vascular). Supports heart health and helps maintain healthy blood pressure.

No gatekeeping this magnesium cheat sheet. Share this post to spread the knowledge. Magnesium can be life-changing!

Your health is your most valuable asset, compounding over time with every choice you make. Invest early to maximize ener...
11/03/2024

Your health is your most valuable asset, compounding over time with every choice you make. Invest early to maximize energy, mental clarity, and stamina. Donā€™t wait for a crisis. Make your well-being a priority today.

The field of obesity medicine is advancing rapidly, with each new generation of treatments offering more promise for pat...
10/30/2024

The field of obesity medicine is advancing rapidly, with each new generation of treatments offering more promise for patients.

Retatrutide, currently in Phase 3 trials under the TRIUMPH program, exemplifies this progress. This medication shows potential not only in weight reduction but also in improving liver and cardiometabolic health.

Retatrutide is also being studied in Phase 3 trials for obesity-related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. If these results hold, the future of obesity care could be transformative, opening doors to comprehensive, whole-body health improvements as early as 2025.

The future of obesity medicine is promising. šŸ™

To book an appointment with me, click on the link in my bio.

If health isnā€™t part of your growth strategy, youā€™re limiting your potential.
10/29/2024

If health isnā€™t part of your growth strategy, youā€™re limiting your potential.

Address

Beverly Hills, CA

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 9pm
Tuesday 8am - 9pm
Wednesday 8am - 9pm
Thursday 8am - 9pm
Friday 8am - 9pm
Saturday 8am - 9pm
Sunday 8am - 9pm

Telephone

+13109028816

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