Drexel University
College of Nursing and Health Professions
Dr. Dardarian is a Professor in the Department of Nutrition Sciences at Drexel University and Director of the Center for Nutrition & Performance (CNP). She is a Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics.
Dr. Dardarian is also Director of Sports Nutrition professional sports teams, Philadelphia Union (Major League Soccer, MLS), winners of the Supporters Shield, 2021, and the Philadelphia Flyers (National Hockey League, NHL).
Dr. Dardanian’s work has been on the front page of the Philadelphia Inquirer twice, most notably for eating at McDonald’s for 30 days. She is a frequent contributor to local and national media including CBS Philly, WHYY, Prevention Magazine, and Women’s Health Magazine in topics ranging from nutrient content, weight management, sports nutrition, and nutrition for specialized populations.
She developed the formulation of Dragon Gels™, an In-sport fuel used exclusively by the teams she supports. Dragon Gels™ is produced, packaged, and distributed through the Metabolic Kitchen, Drexel University.
Her research projects focus on esports, collegiate and professional athlete knowledge and behavior change, resting metabolic rate, and nutrition-centered workplace wellness programs.