Coffee protects the liver and reduces the risk of diseases

The liver performs many critical functions: it processes nutrients, filters toxins, and synthesizes proteins. Stress, viral infections, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders make this organ particularly vulnerable to damage leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

An analysis of recent decades shows that regular coffee consumption is associated with lower levels of key liver enzymes (ALT, AST, GGT), which indicates a decrease in liver cell damage. The effect is especially pronounced in people with metabolically associated liver steatosis, where the risk of fibrosis progression is reduced by about a third.

An important feature is the dependence of benefits on the amount of drink consumed. Maximum protection is achieved by consuming three or more cups per day, when the biologically active substances of coffee interact and strengthen the body’s defense mechanisms. They suppress inflammatory pathways, reduce the activity of cells that form scar tissue, and support beneficial intestinal bacteria, reducing the burden on the liver.

At the same time, filtered coffee can have fewer protective effects, since some of the diterpenes are removed by filtration. However, moderate consumption of any coffee as part of a healthy lifestyle remains an affordable and effective way to support the liver.

Doctors emphasize that coffee does not replace treatment, but it can serve as an additional preventive measure. Excessive consumption or sensitivity to caffeine can cause anxiety, arrhythmia, or interactions with certain medications, so it’s important to take precautions and consider your individual reactions to the drink.