Hi
@garyjakings, part of the trouble is that what we have been told is a healthy diet, (low fat, 5 portions of fruit and veg etc) is based on some shaky science that was trumpeted loudly and so taken as being correct. The good news is that you can ignore the 'low fat' options because usually they have added sugars (just read the label and see how many things end with _ose). Your best friend will be a bg meter and a food diary to find out what causes a large rise. Some of us find that grain products are a problem, so bread, cakes, biscuits are off limits. Remember that excess stress, pain and illness may rise your bg. You may find that you lose weight initially if you don't want to lose more look for the 'healthy fat' foods - olives, avocado, fish. Treats come in tiny amounts, a couple of squares of good quality chocolate but taste all the better. It sounds restrictive but you rediscover cheeses, eggs, assorted salad ingredients etc
You will find that by the time you reach New Year you will feel that you have taken control of your own health, know how your own body reacts to foods and exercise. You are not alone, ask questions on the forum and wherever you are, whatever time, there is usually someone else around who may be able to help. When you have to find out for yourself it is a steep curve but the learning is better and more thorough.