Due to changing diets and lifestyles, there is an increase in type 2 diabetes universally. Around 6.28% of people worldwide are affected by type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has affected more than 50% of individuals with type 2 diabetes.  As per research, coffee for the liver disease has proven to be a new medicine. Polyphenols and antioxidants like CGA (chlorogenic acid) found in coffee help to reduce the development of NAFLD and improve glucose intolerance. In this article, we will discuss NAFLD, type 2 diabetes and their response to coffee consumption.

What is Diabetes?

We need insulin to transport glucose from the blood into the cells of our body. In type 2 diabetes, our insulin function is impaired, so our blood sugar levels increase. If untreated or undetected, type 2 diabetes may progress to affect other organs like the heart, liver and kidney. However, this condition can be managed with lifestyle modification and proper medication.

Diabetics and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Of people who have type 2 diabetes, at least half of them have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Diabetes is believed to raise the risk of NAFLD, a condition wherein even when you don’t consume alcohol, fat builds up in your liver. Fatty liver doesn't usually have symptoms, but it can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and heart and kidney disease.

The Link between Coffee and Liver Disease

Research suggests that coffee may reduce the severity of liver diseases, specifically non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis. Here are some potential ways that coffee could help:

1. Lowering the risk of liver disease

Some studies have found that drinking coffee regularly is associated with a lower risk of developing liver disease. For example, a 2020 study published in the journal of Public Health found that people who drank three or more cups of coffee per day had a lower risk of NAFLD than those who drank less than one cup per day.

2. Reducing liver damage

Coffee contains compounds called polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties that may help to reduce liver damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. In a 2020 study published in the journal, researchers found that polyphenols in coffee improved liver function and reduced liver damage in rats with liver cirrhosis.

3. Decreasing the risk of liver cancer

Coffee consumption has been linked to a decreased risk of liver cancer due to the presence of components like kahweol and cafestol. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer.

It is worth noting, however, that the optimal amount of coffee consumption for liver health may vary depending on individual factors such as age, sex, and underlying health conditions. Also, consuming coffee in moderation and without added sugar or cream is recommended for overall health benefits. You should always talk to your doctor about your health and coffee consumption.

Consult An Apollo Diabetologist

FAQs

1. How are coffee and diabetes related?

Studies suggest that consuming coffee may modulate blood glucose levels and reduce the severity of liver disease prevalent in type 2 diabetes patients.

2. What are the constituents of coffee?

Caffeine is the main active component in coffee. Other compounds in coffee are cafestol, kahweol, chlorogenic acids and melanoidins.

3. How does coffee help liver disease?

Coffee has a high concentration of polyphenols and antioxidants that can reduce liver damage.

4. Why do people with diabetes usually have liver conditions?

Diabetes, a metabolic syndrome, affects almost every system in the body, including the liver.

5. Is it recommended to consume coffee when suffering from type 2 diabetes?

Yes, it is recommended that patients with diabetes take coffee with no or less sugar.

Consult An Apollo Diabetologist

You can also manage your diabetes like a pro with Apollo 24|7's 12-week empower programme.

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.