In this episode of Nurah Speaks, I continue my Know Your Numbers series by focusing on one of the most important health markers we often overlook: cholesterol.

After discussing blood sugar and blood pressure in previous episodes, I explain what cholesterol is, why our bodies need it and why it's so important to know your cholesterol numbers before they become a serious health issue.

I also encourage all of us—especially within the Black community—to prioritize annual physicals, review our lab results and take advantage of free health screenings if health insurance is a barrier.

Prevention and early detection can save lives.

In this episode, I discuss:

• Why knowing your cholesterol numbers matters

• What cholesterol is and the role your liver plays

• The difference between LDL ("bad") cholesterol and HDL ("good") cholesterol

• How high cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries

• The connection between high cholesterol, heart disease, heart attacks and stroke

• Simple lifestyle changes that can naturally improve cholesterol levels without medications.

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