Tara is a renowned authority in nutrition, fitness, and health promotion, frequently sought after by major media outlets, including television, radio, magazines, and websites. As a dynamic speaker, consultant, and author, Tara inspires audiences and individuals to lead healthier, more vibrant lives.

 

Media Expertise & Publications
Tara gained national recognition as the co-host and resident nutrition expert on Emotional Mojo (2013–2015). For over a decade, she was the beloved "Diet Diva" on The Daily Buzz, sharing practical tips for healthy living. A former National Media Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Tara has been featured in over 1,500 media outlets, including The New York Times, People, Runner’s World, Women’s Health, CNN.com, and WebMD.

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As an author, Tara has penned several highly acclaimed books, including Pregnancy Cooking & Nutrition for Dummies and Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies. She is also a featured expert on BodyNetwork.com and an expert reviewer on EverydayHealth.com.

 

Sports & Performance Coaching
Tara is the sports nutrition consultant for the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and a performance coach at Johnson & Johnson’s Human Performance Institute, where she trains executives in energy management. She has served as the team dietitian for the Orlando Magic, UCF Athletics, and WWE, using her expertise to optimize performance at the highest levels of sport.

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Entrepreneurship & Consulting
As the owner of Tara Gidus Nutrition Consulting, LLC, Tara offers innovative programs on topics such as energy maximization, healthy aging, sports performance, and body positivity. Her consulting clients include Walt Disney World, Canyon Ranch Spa, and Tupperware, among others. For three years, she was the official nutritionist for runDisney, offering expert advice to marathon runners nationwide.

 

Education & Credentials
Tara earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Nutrition and Health Promotion from Purdue University. She is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN), Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN), Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), and Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM-CPT). In recognition of her impact on the field of nutrition, Tara was inducted into the Purdue University Alumni Hall of Fame in 2013.

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Community Involvement
A dedicated volunteer, Tara serves on the Ambassador Council for the Modern Widow’s Club as well as starting the Health and Wellness Club within the Modern Widow's Club.  She was on the board of RUN3rd Alliance, a charity promoting running for youth.. Her commitment to making a difference includes mentoring women through rehabilitation programs and supporting cancer research through the American Cancer Society.

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Personal Life
Tara is an accomplished runner who has completed 19 marathons, including four Boston Marathons, and countless other races. She recently got into triathlons, winning the first Tri she ever entered, and completing an Ironman 70.3 in under 6 hours.  After losing her first husband, Stephen Gidus, to cancer in 2012, Tara married John Collingwood in 2015. Together, they are raising their blended family of four boys alongside their Goldendoodle, Coco. The family enjoys outdoor adventures, traveling, and staying active together.