Scientists: coffee reduces the risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer

A large-scale study conducted by specialists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has revealed a striking link between regular coffee consumption and a significant reduction in the risk of severe liver diseases — from cirrhosis to cancer. The results of the work have been published in the authoritative journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (CGH).

The scientists focused on 354,957 participants from the UK Biobank, none of whom had been diagnosed with either cirrhosis or liver cancer at the start of the observation period. The volunteers' health was tracked over an average of 13 years.

The data obtained proved highly telling: among those who drank five or more cups of coffee per day, the risk of cirrhosis was reduced by 32%, the risk of liver cancer by 47%, and the likelihood of death from liver diseases dropped by a full 42% compared to people who completely abstained from the beverage.

Notably, the beneficial effect was already observed at one to two cups per day, while the maximum benefit was provided by three to four cups. Nevertheless, the authors specifically emphasize that the results should not be interpreted as a call to drink more than five cups of coffee daily.

Seeking to understand the mechanisms behind the discovered pattern, the researchers additionally examined liver magnetic resonance imaging data and blood test results. The picture that emerged was revealing: coffee drinkers were found to have less fat, iron, signs of fibrosis, and inflammation in the liver. Moreover, their blood showed elevated levels of proteins responsible for healthy organ function and reduced concentrations of proteins associated with inflammation and tissue scarring.

A curious detail: similar results were observed both among devotees of regular coffee and among fans of decaffeinated coffee. This suggests that the protective effect is provided not only by caffeine but also by other biologically active substances contained in the beverage.

The authors of the study draw attention to an important nuance: the research was observational in nature and does not prove that coffee itself prevents liver diseases. The primary preventive measures, they say, remain maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.