Coffee beans contain caffeine and various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support metabolism. Doctor Dao Thi Yen Thuy, Head of the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explains that moderate coffee consumption (around one to two small cups per day) can contribute to lower liver enzymes and slow the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Coffee may also reduce the risk of liver cancer in individuals with chronic hepatitis B or C.

People with liver conditions should avoid excessively strong coffee, high doses, or evening consumption, as caffeine can stimulate the nervous system, causing insomnia and rapid heartbeat. This can be detrimental to those with underlying health issues or metabolic disorders.

It's advisable to limit adding sugar, condensed milk, or strong alcohol to coffee, as these increase the metabolic burden on the liver, posing risks for individuals with fatty liver disease or diabetes. Coffee shouldn't replace breakfast or be taken simultaneously with liver medication, as caffeine can interact with certain active ingredients, reducing treatment efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.

Moderate coffee consumption can help protect the liver from damage. Photo: Trong Nghia

Doctor Yen Thuy notes that not everyone with a liver condition can drink coffee. Those in the acute phase of hepatitis, decompensated cirrhosis, or progressive liver failure should avoid coffee entirely. During these stages, the liver's detoxification and metabolic functions are significantly impaired, making the body more susceptible to accumulating harmful caffeine and its metabolites. Individuals with arrhythmias, chronic insomnia, or uncontrolled hypertension should also exercise caution, as caffeine can exacerbate these conditions.

People with liver conditions should consult a nutritionist or doctor before incorporating coffee into their daily diet. Regular health check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing weight are essential for liver health. Supplemental natural extracts like s. marianum and wasabia can help control the activity of Kupffer cells (resident macrophages in the liver), contributing to enhanced detoxification, reduced liver enzymes, and improved liver function in cases of hepatitis and fatty liver disease.

Trong Nghia