Coffee found to protect against chronic liver disease, scientists say

A new study carried out sampling almost half a million Britons found that coffee could ward off chronic liver disease.

Coffee can fight inflammation

The research, which was published in the journal BMC Public Health from the University of Southampton, reported evidence that avid coffee drinkers had a 21% lower risk of succumbing to life-threatening liver problems.

In particular, compounds called kahweol and cafestol, which are found in the popular beverage, have proven to be effective in combatting liver inflammation. On the other hand, caffeine, was shown to be a potent treatment against liver scarring. All three compounds in question were found to be at higher levels in ground coffee. Dr Oliver Kennedy, author of the study, said:

Coffee is widely accessible and the benefits we see may mean it could offer a potential preventative treatment

According to statistics, one in three Brits suffers from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease—with those who are overweight being more afflicted. When the condition worsens over time, it can lead to more serious complications. However, after initial clinical trials, researchers found that regular coffee consumption can ward off serious conditions by 49% compared to those who do not drink coffee.

Three to four cups a day

In order to conduct the study, researchers followed up with participants aged 40 to 60 from the UK Biobank for an average of 10 years. 3,600 of those sampled who were not considered regular coffee-drinkers developed chronic liver disease with 301 of them dying. In comparison, all types of coffee, from ground to instant and even decaffeinated, were linked to lower chances of developing liver conditions.

The study also found that the benefits of drinking coffee level off at around three to four cups per day, meaning that anything above that amount would not necessarily provide the liver with more protection.

Despite the positive results, more research still needs to be carried out in order for coffee to be recommended to those at risk of liver disease.