Russell Morse Wilder Sr. (November 24, 1885 – December 16, 1959)[1] was an American physician, diabetologist, epileptologist, and medical researcher, known as one of the originators of the ketogenic ("classic keto") diet as a therapy for both epilepsy[2][3] and diabetes.

Upon his return from Vienna, Wilder became a physician at Chicago's Presbyterian Hospital,[1] where he worked from 1914 to 1917[6] and completed his medical residency.

[6] At the Mayo Clinic, Wilder was a staff member from 1919 to 1929[6] and was section head for all the diabetic patients.

[1] Wilder was the author or co-author of more than 250 papers and contributed to several medical textbooks and to the Encyclopaedia Britannica.

"[1] He used his expertise in medicine and nutrition to serve the U.S. Federal government in several committees and agencies, especially during WW II.

In 1956 he received an award from the American Bakers Association "in recognition of his leadership in promoting enrichment of white flour and bread with vitamins.