Robin, I know that each of us is in charge of taking good steps to ensure we get to the bottom of problems. Since you suffered this yourself, I'm glad that you pointed out there are other possibilities for belly fat. If a person is not sure they have a good diagnosis he or she needs to keep on the case like a detective until the problem is solved. I know that Dr. Jerome Groopman, author of "How Doctor's Think," advocates doing that. If you haven't read this book, I recommend it to you.
The problem is, most physicians want to label the person with the symptoms instead of looking for the underlying problem. I suffered for over 20 years with Cushing's Disease before I was diagnosed with an ACTH producing pituitary tumor (which causes elevated cortisol). Only doctors who really understand the disease will make the effort. They are few and far between.
Robin, thanks for sharing this possiblilty. I chose the image because it rather put the belly fat problem out "front and center."
I'm with you... a person should check with a physician about the possiblity of a disease.
Thanks.
She sure looks "Cushie" to me (Cushing's Disease/Syndrome). A lot of what you mention are symptoms of that disease.
It's a deal!
Let me know how you're doing in a month's time, OK, Jackie? And I promise to tell you when you tell me.
Deal?
The dietician suggested I try doing sit ups in each ad break when I watch TV. Now here in the UK the ad breaks are nowhere near as regular as in the US but even then I am on the floor a lot!It will take a while but it will be worth it.
Jackie, until we're fully aware, I sense we don't do anything about it - and it's amazing how this can creep up on us.
Yesterday it was raining so I walked in the mall. It was amazing to me how many people had "Apple" shapes. I never really concentrated on that before. Some were really young, too.
I saw some light weights in the store the other day so might try a light workout with those as I walk. 
Hi Robyn. A couple of weeks ago I was a volunteer on an information desk about diabetes. A dietician was with me for part of the time and we did the "measure your waist" test. She had a tape measure which showed the "danger" areas in red. I am in OK shape but my waist needs a couple of inches attention - I am onto it. But it alarms me now that I know this how many people are carrying this problem around with them!
Rick, thanks for sharing meditation as a significant way to overcome stress. That's a very important addition to what I included. Thanks.
That's a great quote from Dr. Peeke, Robyn. I'm going to have to remember it.
You know me. I have to recommend meditation for stress, and physical yoga for it's effect on the metabolism and stress. If nothing else, when done regularly it helps you be more conscious of the signals from your body and makes them easier to cope with.
Bob, I've changed my way of eating and enjoy my golf [walking the course] and I feel so much better than in past. Even now, when I feel a stressor, I am so much more conscious of what could take place if I eat to feel better.
Like you, I wish I'd known this sooner.
For the last few years - wish it would have happened earlier in life - part of my inner tape plays "Be good to yourself...take time to be you...remember to breathe...we are human beings, not human doings". Maybe its an age thing?
That's not to say stress doesn't play a part in life (I may yet post about my current ordeal with plane tickets from Orbitz - not yet resolved!) but it certainly seems easier to deal with when I'm fit. The funny part is this is no secret. Yet we continue to see it impact the people all around us. As always, Robyn, thanks for bringing it to your readers attention.
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