A study examining the relationship between coffee consumption and liver health found that people who regularly drink coffee have lower risks of developing cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver disease-related mortality.

Study Design

The research, conducted by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, analyzed data from 354,957 UK Biobank participants who did not have cirrhosis or liver cancer at the start of the study. The health of these individuals was monitored over a median period of 13 years, using medical records to track new cases of liver disease and related deaths. Additionally, participants underwent liver MRI scans and blood protein analyses to identify biological mechanisms that might explain the link between coffee consumption and liver health.

Main Findings

On average, participants who drank coffee had better liver health indicators compared to those who did not. Those who consumed five or more cups of coffee per day had a 32% lower risk of cirrhosis, a 47% lower risk of liver cancer, and a 42% lower risk of death from liver disease compared to non-coffee drinkers.

MRI and blood protein analyses showed that coffee drinkers had lower levels of liver fat, iron overload, fibrosis, and inflammation. Their blood also contained more proteins associated with healthy liver function and fewer proteins linked to inflammation and tissue scarring.

Additional Observations

A positive effect was observed even among those who drank just one or two cups of coffee per day, though the strongest associations were seen with three to four cups. However, the researchers do not recommend intentionally increasing coffee intake to five or more cups per day.

Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee were linked to improved liver health, suggesting that other natural compounds in coffee, aside from caffeine, may play a role.

Limitations and Recommendations

This was an observational study and identified only associations, not cause-and-effect relationships. Coffee consumption should not replace proven methods of liver disease prevention, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, regular physical activity, and controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

Caffeine may be contraindicated for some individuals, such as those with uncontrolled hypertension, heart rhythm disorders, severe anxiety, insomnia, or other conditions requiring caffeine restriction. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a doctor before making changes to your diet.

Future Research Directions

Future studies aim to identify the specific compounds in coffee responsible for these effects and to further explore the biological pathways related to inflammation and tissue scarring. This will help clarify how coffee affects liver health and who may benefit most from its consumption.