Drinking coffee can have a protective effect against chronic liver disease, including cancer. This is what emerges from a British study by the University of Southampton published in the journal BMC Public Health.
Liver disease is on the rise, especially so-called fatty liver disease, which is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver with known risk factors such as diabetes (DM2) and obesity. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can severely progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Some studies have suggested a relative protective effect of coffee against the risk of chronic liver disease, after noting that regular consumers have fewer markers (enzymes) that indicate problematic liver function.
The team from the University of Southampton investigated the topic by analyzing the data of half a million people, aged between 40 and 69, followed for an average period of 10 years. Their usual coffee consumption was known, while the researchers were given access to their medical records. The result of the analysis shows that, compared to non-consumers, daily coffee drinkers have a significantly reduced risk (-20%) of developing chronic liver disease, whether it is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or cancer. .
The association is observed regardless of the type of coffee, with or without caffeine, soluble or ground. As for the quantity, it would appear that three cups a day is a good dose.
Researchers attribute this beneficial effect to the combined action of molecules in coffee, including kahweol and cafestol. In fact, coffee alone doesn’t work wonders, as these liver diseases are associated with other lifestyle determinants, especially diet (too much fat, too much sugar). However, it is possible that with equivalent behaviors, coffee makes a difference.