Baybutt said that women don't need to be too concerned with raising HDL levels until after menopause, but that they should develop a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of heart disease and heart attack. However, men naturally have lower HDL levels and an increased risk for heart attack, he said. Baybutt recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week to keep physically fit, which may decrease LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. He said that weight loss lowers LDL, while exercise raises HDL levels. Baybutt said in moderation wine is thought to increase good cholesterol, but that people should be aware of the health risks associated with excess consumption.
Moderation is one to two drinks a day.
Excessive amounts can lead to heart attack and stroke. Baybutt said that individuals should know if their cholesterol levels are too high. Physicians will encourage you to lower your total cholesterol or raise your HDL cholesterol. If total cholesterol is too high, individuals should modify their diet, increase their activity level, and if necessary, use drug treatment to lower it, Baybutt said. The benefits of keeping the cholesterol low far outweigh the inconvenience of taking medication.