High Coffee Consumption Linked to Lower Risk of Liver Disease and Cancer

A large study involving 354,957 participants without liver cirrhosis or liver cancer at baseline found that higher coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver disease-related mortality. The participants were followed for a median of 13 years, during which researchers examined coffee intake, types of coffee, and additions such as sugar or artificial sweeteners.

The study revealed a dose-dependent decrease in liver disease risks: those drinking five or more cups of coffee daily had a 32% lower risk of cirrhosis, a 47% lower risk of liver cancer, and a 42% lower risk of death related to liver disease compared to reference groups. Protective effects were similar for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Even among participants adding sugar or sweeteners, the protective association remained, although a slight increase in imaging markers of liver inflammation and fibrosis was observed.

In a subgroup undergoing magnetic resonance imaging, higher coffee intake correlated with less liver fat, lower iron levels, and fewer markers of inflammation and fibrosis. Blood protein analyses indicated patterns linked to better liver function and reduced markers of scarring and immune cell activation.

The researchers concluded that high coffee consumption is associated with improved clinical, imaging, and protein indicators of liver health. They suggested that moderate coffee intake without added sugar could be a simple strategy to help prevent liver diseases.