Scientists have found that coffee may reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer

Scientists from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that regular coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death from complications of diseases of this organ. The results of the study were published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (CGH).

The study included 354,957 participants from the UK Biobank who had no cirrhosis or liver cancer at the start of the observation period. Scientists monitored their health for an average of 13 years.

The analysis showed that people who drank five or more cups of coffee per day had a 32% lower risk of developing cirrhosis, a 47% lower risk of liver cancer, and a 42% lower probability of death from liver diseases compared to those who did not drink coffee.

At the same time, a positive effect was already observed with consumption of one to two cups per day, and it was most pronounced in the range of three to four cups. However, the authors emphasize that the results should not be interpreted as a recommendation to drink more than five cups of coffee daily.

To identify possible mechanisms behind this association, the researchers also analyzed liver magnetic resonance imaging data and blood test results. Coffee drinkers had less fat, iron, signs of fibrosis, and inflammation in the liver. Additionally, this group had higher levels of proteins associated with healthy organ function and lower concentrations of proteins associated with inflammation and tissue scarring.

Similar results were observed among both regular coffee drinkers and decaffeinated coffee drinkers. This suggests that the protective effect is linked not only to caffeine but also to other biologically active compounds found in the beverage.

The authors note that the study was observational in nature and does not prove that coffee itself prevents liver diseases. According to them, the primary preventive measures remain maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.