Coffee is among the most popular beverages worldwide and, in recent years, has sparked significant interest among the scientific community. It is estimated that around two billion cups of coffee are consumed each day worldwide, making it an essential part of the daily routine of millions of people.
Given this reality, it is crucial to understand how it can impact health, particularly liver function. Is it beneficial or harmful to the liver? In this article, we will explore the main scientific evidence that addresses this question.
How does coffee affect the liver?
The liver performs vital functions such as detoxifying the body, producing bile, and metabolizing nutrients. Recent studies have indicated that certain components of coffee, especially caffeine and chlorogenic acids, may exert protective effects on liver cells.
Caffeine is an alkaloid that acts as an antagonist of adenosine receptors, which impacts the regulation of inflammatory processes and the modulation of liver fibrosis. Additionally, it may influence lipolysis, helping to reduce fat accumulation in the liver.
On the other hand, chlorogenic acids are phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may mitigate oxidative damage to liver cells. It has been proposed that these acids decrease the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, which, in theory, could reduce the risk of developing fibrosis and other chronic liver complications.
The Impact of Coffee on Liver Health
Fatty Liver and Fibrosis
Liver diseases caused by fat accumulation, such as steatosis (also known as fatty liver disease), have become a public health concern due to the rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that moderate coffee consumption (between two and three cups daily) may be associated with a decreased risk of progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to more advanced stages such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis.
According to an article published in Nutrients (2024), coffee consumption showed an inverse correlation with the presence of fibrosis, especially in patients with metabolic disorders. The possible mechanism lies in coffee’s ability to inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells, which are primarily responsible for the production of collagen and scar tissue in the liver. This is in addition to the antioxidant action of its polyphenolic compounds, which could minimize cellular damage and chronic inflammation.
Liver cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is the final stage of fibrosis and is characterized by diffuse structural alterations that impair liver function. Available evidence indicates that regular, moderate coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of developing cirrhosis, regardless of the underlying cause (alcoholic, viral, or metabolic).
Some epidemiological analyses suggest that consuming three to four cups of coffee per day may be associated with a reduction in the risk of cirrhosis of up to 40%. However, experts recommend a cautious approach, as coffee alone cannot reverse established conditions or replace specific medical treatments.
Viral hepatitis
Both hepatitis B and hepatitis C are viral infections that can become chronic and lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Recent research suggests that coffee consumption may help slow the progression of fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B or C, even improving the response to some antiviral treatments.
In a French study, it was reported that patients with hepatitis B who drank three or more cups of coffee per day showed a reduction in fibrosis as measured by noninvasive biomarkers. Similarly, in the case of hepatitis C, coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of developing chronic complications.
Potential benefits in liver cancer prevention
Hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer, is one of the most serious complications of chronic liver diseases. Several epidemiological studies have found an inverse association between coffee intake and the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, finding that people who consume two or more cups per day may have a significant decrease in the incidence of this type of cancer.
A recent meta-analysis revealed that each additional cup of coffee correlated with a gradual reduction in the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting a possible dose-dependent protective effect.
This protective action could be explained by coffee’s ability to decrease the production of inflammatory mediators and regulate cell signaling pathways involved in the proliferation of abnormal cells. Furthermore, coffee has been observed to reduce levels of enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), markers of liver damage.
Do all types of coffee offer the same benefits?
Not all preparation methods or types of coffee have the same profile of bioactive compounds. Filtered coffee (for example, Americano) may have certain advantages over Turkish coffee or espresso, as the ground coffee is consumed directly from the ground coffee, which may contain other components with unknown impacts on liver health. Furthermore, the addition of refined sugar or creamers rich in saturated fats may counteract some of coffee’s potential benefits for the liver.
Regarding the difference between caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, most studies show a more marked protective effect for caffeinated coffee, although decaffeinated coffee has also demonstrated benefits, likely linked to its antioxidant and chlorogenic acid content.
How much coffee is recommended?
Most scientific research points to a safe range of coffee consumption of between two and four cups per day for the general population, which could help liver health without significantly increasing the risk of adverse effects.
However, excessive intake (more than six cups per day) could be associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular or nervous disorders, especially in people sensitive to caffeine. Each body responds differently, so it is essential to listen to your body and, if you suffer from advanced liver disease, consult a healthcare professional.
Precautions and Special Populations
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is recommended to limit caffeine consumption to less than 200 mg per day, equivalent to about two cups of coffee, to prevent potential risks to pregnancy.
People with sleep disorders or anxiety: Caffeine can exacerbate symptoms of insomnia, nervousness, and palpitations, so moderate consumption or substituting with decaffeinated caffeine is recommended.
Pharmacological Treatments: Certain medications can interact with caffeine. If in doubt, it is always advisable to consult a doctor.
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