Coffee may significantly reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer - scientists

Scientists have found a strong association between regular coffee consumption and a reduced risk of serious liver conditions, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. The study, conducted by researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in the United States, suggests that drinking coffee could be a significant factor in preventing liver disease complications and mortality.

Published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the research analyzed data from over 350,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Over an average of 13 years, those who consumed five or more cups of coffee daily exhibited a 32% lower risk of developing cirrhosis, a 47% lower risk of liver cancer, and a 42% lower risk of dying from liver disease compared to non-coffee drinkers. Even moderate consumption, such as one to two cups daily, showed a positive effect, with the most significant benefits observed between three to four cups.

Interestingly, the study indicated that both regular and decaffeinated coffee drinkers experienced similar protective effects. This finding suggests that components within coffee other than caffeine may contribute to liver health. Coffee drinkers in the study also showed lower levels of liver fat, iron, fibrosis, and inflammation, alongside higher levels of proteins associated with healthy liver function. However, the researchers cautioned against excessive consumption, advising against drinking more than five cups per day, and stressed that coffee consumption should not replace established preventive measures like maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.