Thank you so much, it definitely wasn't easy.
Initially I was very skeptical about starting on a strong medication (in my opinion). I was very keen on trying it all just by lifestyle changes. However my GP convinced me to take metformin as a protective drug and trulicity to be more aggressive given my age she said it is important to protect the beta function and may help with my weight loss too. I also had issues with my eye (which is how my diabetes was diagnosed) so it was important to bring down my BGs quickly.
In terms of side effects and process, I started on 0.75 for 3 months I think and then went up to 1.5. Initially it caused a lot of fatigue, stomach issues, nausea and mainly loss of appetite. I love cooking and food and somehow after trulicity I felt a bit repulsive towards food and that made me feel down. It may have well have been multiple other factors including being diagnosed newly.
I haven't come across that diet and haven't tried meal replacements. But I tried intermittent fasting loosely and my low carb is my own version i.e. I swap pasta for courgette and things like that.
I also have quite a bit of weight to lose and a steep uphill. Good luck with your journey. All I would say about medication is- discuss with your GP extensively until you are sure that you want to go in that direction.