Before commencing private practice, Shamala was employed in the public hospital system for many years. She has a wealth of experience in nutrition and health having worked as a clinical dietitian in every clinical area at major teaching hospitals in Sydney and around New South Wales . She has also been employed as a diabetes dietitian and a health promotion consultant.

As a health promotion consultant, Shamala gained valuable insight and experience beyond nutrition, having been involved in diverse roles and activities such as physical activity campaigns for New South Wales, sun safety for outdoor workers, writing nutrition policy for schools, helping to make school canteens healthier and occupational health and safety in the work place.

Shamala is particularly passionate about omega-3 fatty acids. She studied at the University of Wollongong and was awarded the Woodhill prize for her research into omega-3 fatty acids by The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA).

She has published her research on omega-3s in ‘The Australian Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics' (now known as ‘Nutrition & Dietetics') and her book, ‘The Omega-3 Life Program' published by McGraw-Hill was the first comprehensive Australian book on the subject.

Shamala's second book, ‘The Omega-3 Diet Revolution' published by Pan Macmillan takes this concept a step further and gives you a complete program for life. It covers all that you need to know about good nutrition as well as weight loss, exercise, motivation, positive thinking and a healthy, happy lifestyle.

Shamala’s third book The Total LIFE Diet is the culmination of many years of research, clinical practice, menu planning and recipe development. It is her major life’s work.

Shamala gives talks and presentations to dietitians, doctors, specialists and the general public. She is a member of various organisations such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietics (formerly the American Dietetic Association), The Omega-3 Centre and the Australian Society of Authors (ASA).

Shamala also loves music and is an Associate of the Trinity College of Music, London. While her busy schedule doesn't leave much time for playing the piano, she enjoys listening to music, singing, watching movies and having good food with family and friends.