I'm terrible at this game. I really want to like it, but the combat system is arcane to me, and I always end up running out of food.
This game has a wiki to read
To make your life easier quickly, get achievements. Turn on the Ironman mode to do it effectively. Each achievement opens you bonuses for the next time.
Learn what each stat does. Endurance is for managing stamina and Agility is for managing stability, for example. Have those stats high enough (I personally always have 5 Perception, 5 Strength, Agility and Endurance as high as I could). You can use perk points to get even more stats.
Battle is not hard if you have a decent build with stats. You just guard with a shield to wait out attacks and you press attacks to make damage.
Equipment gives you advantage. After you learn how to fight and make a good build, you can buy better armor and stat-raising gear for extra protection. Also buy a weapon, Broadsword maybe.