Dilhari Gunathilaka

About Dilhari

Dr. Dilhari Gunathilaka is a registered dietitian with a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition, inspired by personal experiences witnessing the impact of chronic illnesses like kidney disease, heart disease, and diabetes in her family. Her grandfather’s struggle with kidney disease sparked a lifelong commitment to helping others manage and prevent chronic conditions through nutrition and lifestyle change. With over a decade of experience in skilled nursing facilities, Dr. Gunathilaka understands how chronic illness affects not only physical health but also quality of life. She now leads her private practice with a focus on prevention and sustainable, personalized nutrition. Holding degrees from California State University Long Beach and the University of Kansas Medical Center, she brings both clinical expertise and compassion to her work.

Approach to care

Dr. Gunathilaka’s approach to care is rooted in making clinical nutrition both accessible and realistic. She embraces a client-centered, evidence-based practice that honors the uniqueness of every individual. Believing in the power of simple and sustainable changes, she tailors nutrition strategies to each client's medical history, lifestyle, and goals. Her "all foods fit" philosophy fosters a healthy relationship with food, steering away from guilt, restriction, or rigid rules. Having personally navigated challenges with food and health, Dr. Gunathilaka brings empathy and understanding to every consultation. Whether supporting someone with a chronic condition, guiding weight management, or promoting general wellness, she focuses on long-term results that nourish the body and enhance quality of life. Her mission is to empower clients to feel confident, energized, and in control while still enjoying the foods they love.

Your first session with Dilhari

During the initial session, Dr. Gunathilaka prioritizes creating a welcoming and supportive environment. She takes time to get to know each client, understanding that meaningful lifestyle change takes time and consistency. The session includes a thorough review of the client’s medical history, lifestyle, and current eating habits. Clients can expect to openly discuss their goals, concerns, and questions. Dr. Gunathilaka then works collaboratively to develop a personalized nutrition plan, complete with SMART goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time bound to help guide steady, sustainable progress. Each session is designed to support clients in building confidence and making lasting improvements in their health and well-being.

Location

📍 Plano, Texas

Education

Doctor of Clinical Nutrition - KUMC Master of Science in Gerontology - CSULB, Dietetic Internship - CSULB, Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition - CSULB

Hobbies

When not working, Dilhari enjoys spending time with her husband and watching her two children play. She loves taking long walks, volunteering at her church’s kids' ministry, and indulging in her passions for cooking, baking, and traveling.

Licenses and Certifications

DCN - Doctor of Clinical Nutrition

LDN - Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist

RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist