starches necessary?

I am new to the group and am classified as a prediabetic. I would really
like to try leaving out all starches as for years I followed a diabetic
diet which had 2 starch choices at every meal and for 3 snacks. All I did
was gain fat even though my weight at 155 ibs. and 5'5''is not all that
bad I have a body fat % of 38-40%. Interestingly I am neither an apple or
pear shape. I am in my fifties. I would replace the starches with extra
vegies, and have protein, fat/oils, fruit and dairy. Anyone tried eating
this way?

margo