[MapleLeaf]

I'm type 2 diabetic and I felt exactly the same way when I was diagnosed. I felt exhausted constantly, desperate to make changes, and completely overwhelmed by all of the information out there.

There are tons of diets that people have found to be successful and some of them are wildly different. Some people thrive on low-carb/high-fat diets and others feel their best on low-fat/high-carb diets. There's a lot of truth in that "the best diet is the one you'll follow" saying.

There are a few things that do seem to be common in almost all successful diet plans though. Here is what I would personally recommend, especially since you are insulin resistant. (I am too.)

1. Cut down or eliminate high-sugar/high-glycemic food. Sugar, soda, desserts, etc. They will drive your blood sugar up, which will make your body release more insulin. High levels of insulin in your body will keep you feeling sick and exhausted. It will also make it harder for you to lose weight.

2. Increase the amount of fiber you eat. Fiber is filling and helps you eat less. It also helps you avoid your blood sugar shooting up after meals because it lowers the glycemic index of food. Eating a variety of vegetables every day will do more for your health than any vitamin or supplement could.

3. Exercise. If you're new to exercise, start with walking or something else low intensity, like swimming. Exercise will help you burn off excess sugar. It also builds muscle, which speeds your metabolism because muscle uses more calories-- even when your body is at rest.

4. Avoid trans fat. In general, unprocessed/whole foods are better than processed foods. I don't know anyone who advises eating trans fat anymore. It's not even legal to put it in food in some countries.

Ultimately, whatever path you can stick with for life is probably the best for you. The above "rules" are just what I personally find the most helpful and see most people (even on different diets) following. I am rooting for you!

[Stars]

weight watchers is a really good program you should consider looking into.

[forreal]

I think you should talk to your doctor.

[JohnP]

A lot of good information in the responses thus far.

The reason it's confusing is that most people are trying to sell you something so they all claim to have secret information, the best program, a way to make it quick and easy etc.

I'm only going to tell you that:

Calories matter. How you restrict them is up to you but most people find low carb diets easiest to follow.

Lift weights. Find a good beginner program and stick with it. Starting strength or New Rules of Lifting are good. Just don't follow the diet advice in either one.

[RavenWolf]

You have been given a lot of great advice!

I have quite a few pounds to lose myself, and had not exercised in years.

I started using My Fitness Pal, which people have advised you of. I track everything I eat or drink in their immediatly after eating or drinking it.

I drink a 16 ounce glass of ice cold water before every meal.

I only drink water during the day and have a glass of milk once a day.

Fill up on veggies, and measure your portions! (Break out the kitchen scale, measuring cups, and measuring spoons!) Measuring everything is of utmost importance!

Start walking. Even if you can only do 10 or 20 slow minutes the first day. Each day you go walking, try to go a minute or two longer. Your speed will increase as well. Keep hydrated!

Make sure you get enough potassium! I had a big scare and an ER visit due to a deficiency in potassium levels. My Fitness Pal has a break down you can look at to see the recommended daily amount for different values, as well as how many you have reached and how many you have left. This is really a valuable tool for me.

Try to reduce the sodium you take in daily.

As far as what particular diet you should follow, I suggest you talk to your doctor with your pre-diabetic condition. He or she should be able to give you some good food choice ideas.

Be prepared to cut out white carbs. If you currently eat a lot of these, be prepared for pretty intense cravings initially. When I would feel a craving come on, I would drink a glass of water and get out and walk for a few minutes. Distraction will be your best friend!!

Take the time to "search" the forum and you will learn a lot. There is a lot of support here, and I'm glad you found us! I've been here since January, and these great people are one of the main reasons I'm still motivated!

Welcome and hope I was able to help!!