Cholesterol levels can be confusing because there are several different ways in which they are read and calculated. LDL, or low-denisty lipoprotein, is usually referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is known as "good" cholesterol. Total cholesterol is the measurement of both of the components put together. Men and women both need good cholesterol. Men can become at risk for health problems if their HDL levels are too low.
The Role of HDL
HDL can be likened to a garbage collector bringing trash to the dump. HDL picks up the bad cholesterol, or LDL, that's in your bloodstream, and brings it to your liver to be metabolized and excreted, according to MayoClinic.com. Men--and women--want to have enough HDL in their bodies to be able to perform its job properly, to reduce the bad cholesterol that can create health risks.
Healthy Levels of HDL for Men
Sixty is the "magic number" for men to remember in terms of HDL. An HDL reading of 60 mg/dL or more is considered high, and high is good when referring to HDL. The American Heart Association explains that males who measure at least 60mg/dL may receive protection against heart disease. Men who do not have at least 40 mg/dL of HDL are at risk of having high total cholesterol, and high levels of LDL, which can be damaging.
Increasing HDL Through Diet
Men who have borderline or low levels of HDL can increase this good form of cholesterol through diet. To increase HDL, it's important to understand the terminology surrounding fats. Fats are essential nutrients, but eating the wrong types of fats can cause your LDL to rise and your HDL to fall, a condition that is not healthy. Fats that are labeled as mono- or polyunsaturated fats are healthier forms to choose from and can help raise your HDL levels. Trans fats and saturated fats are less heathy and can cause your LDL to rise.
MayoClinic.com explains that several oils, including olive, canola and peanut oil, are healthier fats and can help you increase your HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in walnuts, flaxseed and salmon, can also reverse an unhealthy ratio of good to bad cholesterol.
Boosting Good Cholesterol Through Lifestyle
Men who don't smoke, who work out and who maintain a healthy body weight are less likely to have cholesterol problems, which can lead to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association reports that people who are overweight or smoke are more likely to have high triglyceride levels--a level of fat in the blood--which can be linked to lower HDL and higher LDL levels. Becoming more active can cause your HDL to rise, which helps get rid of a higher LDL level as well.
Medications to Regulate Good Cholesterol
If diet and lifestyle are not keeping your cholesterol levels in check, your doctor may recommend medications designed to boost your good cholesterol levels. Statin drugs are traditionally used to control high cholesterol, but there are other drugs that specifically work on your HDL. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, may be an effective supplement to increase HDL, according to MayoClinic.com. Ask your doctor to recommend a healthy dose, as the vitamin is available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths. Medications called fenofibrate and gemfibrozil may also be prescribed to bring your HDL up to healthy and beneficial readings.
