Ideal HDL for a man should be above 40. This prevents LDL from forming plaques, in blood vessels, which may be leads to heart attacks. There are many things that you can do to raise your HDL. 1. Stop Smoking 2. Reduce Weight - 6 Pounds reduction in weight increases HDL by 1mg/dl. 3. Physical activity increases HDL Bigorous Exercise increases HDL by about 5 Percent. 4. Drink Alcohol only in moderation. Not more than one glass of Wine a day. 5. Diet rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids such as Fish, Nuts,Whole Grains Etc helps increase HDL. 6. Medications such as Niacin and Statins and Fish Oils help.