Two recent publications from the United States and Europe have again focused attention on the positive effects of coffee in reducing all-cause human mortality.[1,2] Furthermore, other studies are adding to our knowledge of coffee's potential ability to reduce the risk for liver disease and its progression. These studies led me to update the information regarding coffee and its beneficial clinical effects.
Coffee is consumed worldwide. Although we may not yet understand the mechanisms of coffee's positive effects,[3,4] a growing number of publications continue to indicate that it can benefit persons with liver disease, slow formation of liver fibrosis, reduce the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma even in persons without cirrhosis, and lower overall mortality in people with or without liver disease.
Reduces All-Cause Human Mortality
Whereas past studies have questioned the safety of excess coffee consumption (and therefore of excess caffeine), recent reports suggest that adults can consume up to 400 mg of caffeine daily without significant risk.[5] This is the amount of caffeine in four 8-ounce cups of regular coffee. Of course, many of us know from observing others or through personal experience that many Americans consume more than four cups of coffee daily.
In a US study of coffee intake and its effects on all-cause mortality, 185,000 multiethnic persons of African American, Latino, Hawaii American, Japanese American, and non-Hispanic white heritage were included.
