> I used to wonder if people ask others the obvious "you're fat, aren't you" etc.

I think this is mostly because fat-shaming is a thing in many cultures; a very toxic phenomena that has caused much unnecessary anguish.

> I read articles that open with "all it takes is a little conversation". Gee thanks. That's the hardest thing I know, and getting harder the further into being an adult I get.

I have no advice for you, but I really wanted to say: I'm sorry that you've had a life like that.