Drinking several cups of coffee a day may significantly reduce the risk of liver cancer and other serious liver diseases, according to a new long-term scientific study.
The research, published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, found that regular coffee consumption was associated with better liver health, even among people who drank five or more cups a day.
The study was led by liver specialist Dr. Hyunseok Kim at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and followed more than 354,000 participants over a period of approximately 10 years.
Researchers found that people who drank five cups of coffee daily experienced:
- A 32% lower risk of liver cirrhosis.
- A 47% lower risk of developing liver cancer.
- A 42% lower risk of dying from liver disease.
Dr. Kim said the protective effects were not limited to caffeine, as participants who consumed decaffeinated coffee showed similar health benefits.
According to the researchers, the benefits are likely linked to the powerful antioxidants found in coffee, which help reduce liver inflammation and fat accumulation. These findings were also supported by MRI scans.
Health experts noted that while the results are encouraging, coffee should not be viewed as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, a healthy body weight and routine medical care remain essential for protecting liver health.
