Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is caffeine the active component in coffee influencing liver function?
A. Caffeine does have a role to play, but there are other active substances, including the diterpenes; Cafestol and Kahweol and the antioxidants, which are thought to have a beneficial effect on liver function.

Q. Does drinking coffee permit us to drink more alcohol without the risk of developing liver cirrhosis?
A. No. All medical advice makes clear that excessive alcohol consumption is detrimental to health. Adults, who choose to consume alcohol in moderation, should be aware of the recommended advice for safe consumption. Even though scientific research suggests that coffee drinking may have a beneficial effect on liver function, the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption are not counter balanced by coffee consumption.

Q. I have heard that the effects of alcohol can be different for women than for men. Is coffee effect different according to gender?
A. Generally, the physiological effect of coffee drinking does not differ between the sexes, however, some groups – pregnant women, smokers, or women taking hormone replacement therapy do metabolise caffeine in a different time scale to those in the general population.

Q. How many cups of coffee should I drink to assist my liver function?
A. Although the research results are based on typical amounts of coffee consumption, it is too early to make recommendations concerning levels of coffee intake that may be protective for liver function. Drinking coffee in moderation is perfectively safe and can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Q. Are the effects similar when drinking espresso, filter, or instant coffees?
A. Studies on the effects of coffee and liver function have been conducted in relation to various types of coffee preparation including; filtered, instant and espresso coffee.

Q. Are the effects of decaffeinated coffee on liver function as beneficial as those of regular coffee?
A. Currently there are no published studies specifically investigating the effects of decaffeinated coffee and liver function.

Q. I usually drink my coffee with milk and sugar. Can I also benefit from the effects reported for black coffee?
A. There is no evidence from published studies to indicate that the addition of milk and/or sugar or their absence, affects the benefits associated with coffee and liver function.