Several studies suggest that coffee may have a positive impact on liver health. Research links regular coffee consumption with a lower risk of several liver diseases and better outcomes for some people who already have liver conditions, reports VeryWell Health.
Coffee is linked to a healthier liver
Research suggests that people who drink coffee regularly appear to experience fewer liver-related problems than those who do not drink coffee.
Three to four cups may offer the greatest benefit
Studies indicate that the greatest liver benefits are seen in people who drink around three to four cups of coffee per day. Drinking more has not shown a clear additional advantage.
Both regular and decaffeinated coffee may help
Research has found that both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee are associated with a lower risk of several liver conditions, suggesting that compounds other than caffeine also contribute to the benefits.
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Coffee may slow the progression of fatty liver disease
Among people with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of significant liver fibrosis, or scarring of the liver.
Coffee does not necessarily prevent fatty liver disease
Researchers found no clear evidence that coffee lowers the risk of developing fatty liver disease in the general population.
Coffee may help protect liver cells
Coffee has been associated with reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, two processes that can damage liver cells and contribute to liver disease.
A lower risk of liver cancer
A 2023 research analysis found that higher coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of primary liver cancer.
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The risk of cirrhosis may also be lower
Regular coffee drinkers appear to have a lower risk of developing cirrhosis and a reduced risk of dying from chronic liver disease.
Brewing method may make a difference
Unfiltered coffee contains higher amounts of cafestol and kahweol, compounds that may benefit the liver but can also raise LDL cholesterol. Paper filters remove most of these compounds.
Keep an eye on your caffeine intake
Healthy adults are generally advised to keep total caffeine intake below 400 milligrams per day, while pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to limit intake to 200 milligrams daily.
What you add to your coffee matters
Adding large amounts of sugar or heavy cream may reduce coffee's health benefits and contribute to weight gain.
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More research is still needed
While the findings are promising, much of the current evidence comes from laboratory and animal studies. More research in humans is needed to confirm these potential benefits.
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