1. What treatments are recommended for low HDL levels?
Low HDL is not usually a target for treatment. While some drugs used to lower LDL also raise HDL, these drugs are not typically prescribed based on HDL levels. Since smoking can decrease HDL levels, quitting smoking (if you are a smoker) is a good way to increase HDL. Exercise is another good way to increase HDL. Alcohol consumption (1 to 2 drinks per day) has been reported to increase HDL, but there is some controversy about whether this is beneficial. Most physicians do not recommend increasing alcohol intake to increase HDL cholesterol.
