My annual physical was nearly over. The doctor had asked routine questions, used her stethoscope to listen to my heart and lungs, and ordered tests of my cholesterol and vitamin D levels.
Throughout the visit, which happened years ago, I pondered sharing what had been preoccupying me for weeks. It was embarrassing, unexpected and probably meant nothing, I thought.
As my doctor’s hand clasped the doorknob, I finally sought reassurance. “I feel like I’ve been gaining weight,” I said hesitantly, “but it’s just in my belly.”
“Well, you’re not pregnant, so your metabolism may be slowing down with age,” she said curtly. “That can happen in your mid-20s. So just up the exercise to 30 minutes a day and watch your diet. Cut out alcohol and fatty foods.”
