Question 1

What is the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol?

Accepted Answer

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is "bad" cholesterol — it deposits cholesterol on artery walls, leading to plaque build-up and coronary artery disease. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is "good" cholesterol — it removes LDL from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver for elimination, protecting against heart disease.

Question 2

What is a good HDL cholesterol level for men?

Accepted Answer

An HDL level above 60 mg/dL is considered excellent and cardioprotective. Between 40–59 mg/dL is acceptable. Below 40 mg/dL is considered poor and is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The AHA recommends keeping HDL as high as possible.

Question 3

What should my LDL cholesterol be?

Accepted Answer

For most healthy men, LDL below 100 mg/dL is ideal. Men at high cardiovascular risk should aim for below 70 mg/dL. LDL of 130–159 mg/dL is borderline high, 160–189 mg/dL is high, and above 190 mg/dL is very high — all warrantint medical attention.

Question 4

How can I raise my HDL cholesterol?

Accepted Answer

The most effective strategies are regular aerobic exercise (150+ min/week), quitting smoking, losing excess weight, consuming healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, avocado), moderate alcohol consumption, and eating fewer refined carbohydrates. Some medications (e.g. niacin) can also raise HDL.

Question 5

How can I lower my LDL cholesterol?

Accepted Answer

Key dietary changes include reducing saturated and trans fats, increasing soluble fibre (oats, beans, fruits), adding plant sterols, and eating more fish. Regular exercise and weight loss also help. If lifestyle changes are insufficient, statins are the most proven medication class for LDL reduction.

Question 6

How often should men get their cholesterol checked?

Accepted Answer

Men aged 20+ should have a fasting lipid panel every 4–6 years if risk is low. Men with risk factors (family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity) should be tested more frequently — typically every 1–2 years. Your doctor will advise based on your full risk profile.

HDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)	Description
< 40 mg/dL	Poor
40 – 59 mg/dL	Good
> 60 mg/dL	Excellent

LDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)	Description
< 70 mg/dL	Ideal — Very High Risk
< 100 mg/dL	Ideal — At Risk
100 – 129 mg/dL	Near Ideal
130 – 159 mg/dL	Borderline High
160 – 189 mg/dL	High
≥ 190 mg/dL	Very High

HDL & LDL Cholesterol Levels

HDL Cholesterol Chart

LDL Cholesterol Chart

Frequently Asked Questions