That daily cup of coffee isn’t just fueling your mornings, it might also be protecting one of your body’s most crucial organs. Emerging research shows that coffee is more than a pick-me-up, its a natural ally for liver health, helping to reduce the risks of disease and promote detoxification.
Whether you’re a latte lover or a black coffee purist, your favourite brew could be doing wonders beneath the surface. Health publications explain further how all this happens.
The Cleveland Clinic claims that research shows that coffee consumption can lower the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition affecting 1 in 4 people in the U.S, and protect those with hepatitis C, a virus that can cause liver damage. It is further added that regular coffee consumption also lowers the odds of developing cirrhosis in those with fatty liver disease and reduces the likelihood of death from the disease in those with cirrhosis.
“Coffee appears to protect people who already have liver problems. There’s evidence that coffee is beneficial for people with hepatitis C, a virus that infects the liver and can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.”
A study by Elliot Tapper and colleagues from Harvard Medical School has found that a fair amount of coffee consumption may improve liver health. The researchers used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to examine 4,510 individuals aged 20 years or older without viral hepatitis. They also conducted an elastography exam to assess liver stiffness.
The study found that individuals who consumed more than three cups of coffee a day showed reduced levels of liver stiffness when lifestyle factors were considered. They also experienced reduced risks associated with increased liver stiffness. “Therefore, Tapper and his team decided to use the elastography exam to ‘literally assess the elasticity of the liver’, revealing its stiffness. Because traditionally, the stiffer the liver, the unhealthier it is.”
Dr. Wakim-Fleming recommends drinking at least three cups of coffee daily to prevent liver problems, and even more if you have hepatitis or fatty liver disease. However, it is cautioned that excessive coffee can cause headaches, sleep issues, anxiety, and jitters. The National Library of Medicine states that excessive coffee may also be dangerous for those with irregular heart rate or lung cancer.
“Black coffee is best. If you just can’t stomach it black, swap sugar for artificial sweeteners. Add skim milk or plant-based milk instead of cream.”
