You do seem to be getting stressed out, greener...no doubt due to frustration at the situation, at not knowing enough, at having what appear to be differing opinions (because there are plenty)...and also due to trying to make yourself understood and maybe coming across a little confrontational when you are probably just trying to get advice and help, and to make progress. Youa re also clearly frustrated at anticipated cravings for carbs.
Now, Mike D certainly doesn't need me to support him, but I do think you're not getting the fact that he responded in order to help you if he could...the guy gives very good advice, and is very, very supportive...and he has plenty of experience as do others here...I suggest you take everything on offer and research and inform yourself from it all. it's the best way to be in control.
As for averages etc..it really isn't possible to say for sure what someone else will experience...we really do differ (often quite dramatically) and, while some things like low carb diets for example do seem to be good approaches for many..we each need to find our own way. Try not to see others as wrong just because someone else is what seems to be right. They are not trying to attack you! Now - personally, I have had some success on a very low carb diet..ketosis doesn't even seem to come into it with me..and I check my levels). Type 2s really need to go some to have problems with ketone levels.
While I do miss certain things (particularly cornflakes, toast and biccies), I don't really have cravings as such..why? Because, while I do think a little will power is important when you are struggling to not get bored by low carb foods and to find new things, I applied the same approach I used to stop smoking. I could not cut down. I could not stop purely through will power alone. I was addicted! which is exactly what the nicotine delivery system/tobacco companies wanted. I considered the fact that these scumbags were ensuring I was addicted to sell their filthy product and I - was being a pathetic plonker. I refused then to be enslaved by these greedy pigs. Now - the food processors and producers put sugars in our grub to get us addicted to it (mm..tasty)...and the ridiculous amount of carbs in some foods have the same effect as they turn to sugar in the body. They know this. Did you know, for example, as I was once told...if there was no sugar in most cereals, they would have the same nutritional value as cardboard?
My point is...will power, advice, opinions, the latest theory....can only help you apply yourself to an approach, but only understanding why you're doing it (beyond your health, coz you need to), will put you in control. I have no problems really in coping with a very low carb diet because I am choosing to cut the rubbish out - my body doesn't need it, any more than it needs nicotine or heroin. Non-diabetics should also understand this! I actually feel healthier than I did before I had diabetes! I refuse to be a sugar junkie just because somebody wants to make money from me. That - is why I don't struggle. I haven't smoked in nearly 3 years (having stopped cold). It didn't take will power...and I don't miss it at all (and have bought a new car with the cash I saved). I hope you find a way, and that you continue to use the site and pass on what you learn to others - and I hope they, in their turn, don't get frustrated when you try to help. We all get wound up...people like Mike make it easier for other, myself included...can I suggest..start afresh? Good luck. Paul
