UK Biobank Study Links High Coffee Intake to Lower Liver Disease Risk

An observational analysis of 354,957 participants from the UK Biobank, followed for a median of 13 years, found that drinking at least five cups of coffee daily was associated with a 47 % lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, a 32 % lower risk of cirrhosis and a 42 % reduction in liver‑related mortality. Benefits were already evident with one to two cups per day and were similar for caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, suggesting other coffee compounds may play a role.

Magnetic resonance imaging of a subset showed lower liver fat and iron levels and reduced fibro‑inflammation in heavier coffee consumers. The study is observational, so it cannot prove that coffee directly causes the better outcomes, and self‑reported consumption may be confounded by other lifestyle factors.