A lower level seems to indicate a greater risk. The causes for low HDL are being overweight, smoking, and not getting enough exercise. LDL- cholesterol can build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the brain and heart. A high LDL-cholesterol increases your risk of heart attack. 130- 160 is borderline risk.
Most people can lower their cholesterol by eating a diet low in fats.
They can also be lowered by not smoking losing weight and exercise. Try to stay away from fatty foods. Read labels when you go shopping for food. If you buy meat , buy the less fatty meats. Most grocery stores have the meats labeled as to how much fat is in the meat.