A study of 355,000 adults from Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University found that drinking five or more cups of coffee daily reduces the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis by nearly a third, with 42% lower risk of liver-related death, according to The Independent.
The Study’s Key Findings
The research, published in The Independent, analyzed data from 355,000 adults and revealed that coffee consumption correlates with significant liver health benefits. Participants who drank five or more cups daily saw a 30% reduction in cirrhosis risk, while 42% had lower odds of liver-related death. Even moderate intake—1 to 2 cups per day—showed protective effects, with benefits peaking at 3 to 4 cups. Blood tests of coffee drinkers also showed higher levels of proteins linked to healthy liver function and lower markers of inflammation and scarring.
Dr. Ju Dong Yang, medical director of the Liver Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai, emphasized that the findings support “moderate coffee consumption for people who already enjoy and tolerate it well.” The study, which used data from the U.K. Biobank, tracked participants over 13 years, examining liver MRI scans and blood protein levels. Notably, both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee provided similar benefits, suggesting other compounds in the beverage may contribute to liver protection.
What the Research Reveals About Coffee’s Components
Dr. Shelly Lu, director of the Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Cedars-Sinai, highlighted that the study points to “biological pathways involving inflammation and scarring” as potential mechanisms. “The next step in our research is to identify the specific compounds in coffee responsible for these liver-protective associations,” she said, citing the need to explore molecular targets that could inform future therapies.
The research aligns with broader findings from a 2026 review in the Journal of Health and Well-Being, which noted that moderate coffee intake—typically three to five cups daily—is associated with reduced mortality and lower risks of chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and certain cancers. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated varieties showed benefits, though adding sugar or cream may diminish these effects.
Broader Health Implications
Coffee’s health benefits extend beyond the liver. The 2026 review found that moderate consumption improves glucose regulation, increases fat oxidation, and reduces inflammation. It also supports hydration, mental acuity, and physical performance, with some evidence suggesting aid in post-surgical bowel recovery. However, the study cautioned that excessive caffeine intake could cause anxiety or sleep disturbances, and pregnant women should limit consumption to under 200 mg daily.
These findings echo earlier research cited in Healthline’s 2026 analysis, which listed coffee as a “powerhouse” for mood enhancement, gut health, and cardiovascular protection. Yet, the article emphasized that individual tolerance varies, and “there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation.”
What Experts Say and Next Steps
While the Cedars-Sinai study underscores coffee’s liver-protective potential, experts caution against overgeneralization. Dr. Yang noted that “prevention should continue to focus on maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.” The study’s observational design means causation cannot be confirmed, and further research—such as randomized controlled trials—is needed to validate the findings.
The 2026 review also called for more granular analysis of coffee types and additives, as well as long-term studies on how different brewing methods might influence health outcomes. For now, the consensus leans toward moderation, with Dr.
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