Completed – How to implement a total carbohydrate reduction diet for a patient with metabolic dysfunction – RACGP

About Dr Penny Figtree

Dr Penny Figtree is an experienced Australian general practitioner based in Port Macquarie, New South Wales, with a distinguished medical career spanning over two decades. Graduating with first class honours from the University of Sydney in 1993, Dr Figtree has become a recognised leader in metabolic health, weight management, and therapeutic carbohydrate reduction (TCR).

Originally practising conventional general medicine, Dr Figtree grew increasingly concerned about the prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic disease among her patients. Over time, she became an advocate for low carbohydrate and real food diets after witnessing exceptional patient outcomes—such as significant weight loss, diabetes remission, and successful medication deprescribing—through dietary change. Her medically supervised approach emphasises TCR and ketogenic strategies for a diverse range of metabolic issues, including type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and mental health conditions linked to metabolic dysfunction.

Dr Figtree combines lived clinical experience with evidence-based education, offering in-depth dietary guidance and patient-centred support. She leads both one-on-one consultations and practical education programs, equipping patients and health professionals with the tools to improve metabolic health, reduce reliance on medication, and achieve sustainable lifestyle changes. Dr Figtree’s outspoken advocacy for TCR, and her collaboration with peer experts, continue to advance the understanding and practical application of carbohydrate reduction in Australian primary care.