Coffee is a beverage with numerous health benefits, one of which is reducing the risk of liver cancer.
Coffee not only boosts energy and alertness, but numerous studies also indicate that this drink helps lower the risk of memory decline and type 2 diabetes. A study from the University of Southampton (UK) published in the BMC Public Health journal shows that consuming 3-4 cups of coffee daily can reduce the risk of liver cancer and other liver diseases related to alcohol consumption.
Coffee helps prevent liver diseases, including liver cancer. (Illustrative image).
In the aforementioned study, scientists utilized health data from over 494,000 individuals aged 40-69 from the UK Biobank. They examined coffee drinking habits and liver health among this group over more than 11 years. The results revealed that 384,818 individuals were coffee drinkers, while 109,767 did not consume coffee. Specifically, coffee drinkers had a 21% lower risk of chronic liver disease, a 20% lower risk of fatty liver disease, and a 49% lower risk of death from chronic liver disease compared to non-coffee drinkers.
Those who consumed ground coffee containing caffeine or even decaffeinated coffee gained the most benefits. Instant coffee drinkers also experienced reduced risks related to liver disease.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is commonly found in individuals who are overweight, diabetic, or have high cholesterol. According to the American Liver Foundation, 25% of the population in the United States suffers from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Professor Paul Roderick, the lead author of the study, stated: “Drinking coffee protects the body from serious liver diseases, including liver cancer.”
According to the World Cancer Research Fund, liver cancer ranks as the sixth most common cancer worldwide. The American Cancer Society reports that since 1980, the incidence of liver cancer has more than doubled.
The study indicates that individuals who drink 3-4 cups of coffee daily achieve maximum benefits in preventing serious liver disease risks. It also shows that higher coffee consumption does not yield additional benefits.
Vanessa Hebditch, an expert from the British Liver Trust, believes that the study’s findings further reinforce the evidence that coffee is good for liver health.
“However, to improve liver health, along with drinking coffee, it’s important for everyone to remember to limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and follow a healthy diet,” she emphasized.
