Coffee Linked to Lower Liver Disease Risk in 350,000-Person Study

New research involving over 350,000 adults in the UK suggests that drinking coffee regularly may significantly lower the risk of developing liver diseases. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, tracked participants for an average of 13 years and found that those who drank one to two cups of coffee daily had a 20% lower risk of liver cirrhosis and a 31% lower risk of death from liver disease compared to non-drinkers.

The benefits appeared to increase with higher consumption. Individuals drinking five or more cups daily saw their risk of liver cirrhosis drop by 32%, liver cancer by 47%, and liver disease mortality by 42%. Researchers also analyzed liver imaging and blood samples from a subset of participants, identifying lower liver fat and iron content, and reduced signs of fibrosis and chronic inflammation in regular coffee drinkers. Lower concentrations of proteins linked to inflammation and tissue fibrosis, and higher levels of proteins crucial for liver function, were also observed in their blood.

Interestingly, both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee showed similar protective effects, suggesting that compounds other than caffeine in coffee might be responsible for the liver benefits. However, the study cautions that adding sugar or artificial sweeteners could diminish these effects. While the findings are promising, researchers emphasize that this is an observational study and cannot definitively prove that coffee directly causes the reduced risk. They advise that coffee can be part of a healthy lifestyle but should not replace essential liver protection measures such as a balanced diet, weight control, limiting alcohol intake, and regular medical check-ups.

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New research finds that regular coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver disease mortality, but the study only shows a correlation and does not confirm causation.