Welcome to DF. I think we all find trial and error and diabetes goes together. There are no real hard fast rules because each one of us are different. But testing 1,2 and 3 hours after meals helps you find out how your body processes food. I found things like pasta give me great 2 hour numbers but lousy 3 and 4 hour numbers. I also found whole grains really spike me more than pure sugar, so I try to avoid most grain products. Some other carbs like sweet potatoes and squash I can handle pretty well. Exercise does help too. Although I spike during exercise, usually within 2 hours I am back to normal and bgs are better for the next 24 hours or so. I am on metformin and do it has worked miracles for me.