It is with delight that we announce Prof Noakes being recognised for his years of hard work and dedication in the field of nutritional sciences and sports medicine. Prof Noakes has ranked 2028 (all citations) and 1696 (self-citations excluded) out of 100 000 top-cited scientists across all disciplines according to an article published by PLoS Biology this week. He has been ranked 3rd in Sports Science globally and 1st in Sports Scientists whose first publication was in 1973 or later. This is of course welcomed as Prof Noakes has worked exceptionally hard to bring the truth to the scientific and the broader community.
Prof Noakes began his medical journey at the University of Cape Town in 1974 where he earned an MBChB before moving on to complete a higher degree for Doctor of Medicine in 1981. He was subsequently awarded a Doctorate in Science (DSc) in Exercise Science, in 2002. His passion for nutrition and sports science led him to having the prestigious International Cannes Grand Prix Award for Research in Medicine and Water bestowed upon him, for his riveting work on Exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH). His work on EAH has had a fantastic impact in the field of Sports Science. You can obtain the book Waterlogged: The Serious Problem of Overhydration in Endurance Sports on Amazon or Loot. Furthermore, he has been cited more than 21 000 times in scientific literature, has an H-index (self-citations included) of 77, an H-index (all citations) of 86 and has been rated an A1 scientist by the National Research Foundation of South Africa for a second 5-year term, as well as having received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the same foundation. In 2008, he became the first non-UK citizen to be recognized by the Faculty of Sports and Exercise Medicine (UK) and was elected an honorary fellow for his scientific contributions.
Prof Noakes can truly be commended for his ability to implement change within the scientific community. Like others before him, he did not walk into an established sports science unit, but was rather commissioned to head the development of a sports science course, from the ground up, at the University of Cape Town in 1980. Prof Noakes co-founded the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, along with famed rugby player, Morne Du Plessis, which has made wonderful contributions for the growth of the Sports Science field and the development of education for the areas of Biokinetics, Exercise Science and Sport and Exercise Medicine. You can visit their site here to learn more.
Although he may have had many struggles with the medical establishment, Prof Noakes rose above and trudged on with his fight against dishonest science and academic bullying. He has shown immense bravery during his academic career and when faced with adversity has met it head on! He has subsequently gone on to achieve countless accolades, and has been recognised by numerous institutes and organisations as an expert in his field. He has worked tirelessly to publish over 750 scientific books and articles, many of which have received marvellous praise. You can follow the link here to view some of his published works.
Prof Noakes continues to engage with the community by taking part in discussions, has made himself available to participate on many editorial boards and is of course a constant source of knowledge and authority for The Noakes Foundation. He has been a devoted leader for the Nutrition Network and Eat Better South Africa, even being a co-founder of both organisations.
Prof Noakes is absolutely thrilled with the acknowledgement and thanks everyone involved in the publishing of the data and the article, as well as appreciates the unwavering support from the LCHF community. The Noakes Foundation is incredibly proud of Prof Noakes for his dedication to the cause and is thrilled to be aiding Prof Noakes to achieve his vision for changing people’s lives for the better. We are grateful for his support of our work and research. The recognition comes as a wonderful surprise!