David Ludwig (physician)

David Ludwig, M.D., Ph.D., is an American endocrinologist and obesity researcher. He is best known for his research on the effects of diet on metabolism, body weight, and risk for chronic diseases, particularly his work on the carbohydrate-insulin model of obesity.

Ludwig is a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and a researcher at Boston Children's Hospital, where he directs the New Balance Foundation Obesity Prevention Center. His research focuses on how different types of carbohydrates and processed foods impact hormone levels, metabolic rate, and fat storage, leading to weight gain and related health problems. He has proposed that high-glycemic carbohydrates cause a hormonal cascade, leading to increased insulin secretion, which in turn promotes fat storage and hunger.

Ludwig advocates for dietary changes that emphasize whole, unprocessed foods and reduced consumption of refined carbohydrates and added sugars. He has authored numerous scientific publications and popular books, including "Ending the Food Fight" and "Always Hungry?", which promote his dietary recommendations to the general public. His work has contributed to the ongoing debate about the optimal dietary composition for weight management and overall health. He frequently speaks on the topic of nutrition and obesity prevention.