'Protection in a cup' against fatty liver: Fortis doctor recommends rare natural beverage to remove fat build-up

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, liver health is increasingly under threat due to unhealthy diets, sedentary habits, and rising cases of obesity and diabetes. Fatty liver disease, now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is becoming a common concern worldwide, often remaining silent until it leads to serious complications. A simple daily beverage could be more than just a morning pick-me-up—it might actually protect your liver.

In an Instagram post, Dr. Shubham Vatsya, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Fortis Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, has highlighted black coffee as a natural drink that can help manage liver health, reduce fat buildup, and prevent long-term damage.


According to Dr. Vatsya, consuming black coffee without sugar or milk can act as a protective measure for the liver. “Without milk and sugar, black coffee becomes one of the rare natural drinks shown to dissolve liver fat and prevent chronic liver damage,” he explained on social media, calling it “protection in a cup.” Research suggests that three to four cups daily may support liver function, improve metabolism, and limit fat accumulation.


How Coffee Supports Liver Health

Liver specialist Dr. Jamile Wakim-Fleming as per the Cleveland Clinic notes that coffee contains antioxidants and other compounds that help reduce liver inflammation. One such antioxidant, chlorogenic acid, may prevent fat from accumulating in liver cells by aiding glucose breakdown. Coffee may also stimulate autophagy, a process where damaged cells are removed, helping the liver maintain proper function.

Furthermore, coffee inhibits adenosine receptors, which are linked to liver injury and scarring, potentially slowing fibrosis progression. Studies show that even individuals with liver conditions like hepatitis C may benefit, as coffee helps control inflammation associated with the disease.


Fatty liver, medically referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), affects roughly one in four people in the U.S. It can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer if untreated. Research indicates that regular coffee consumption—three to four cups daily—reduces the risk of developing MASLD by improving insulin resistance and managing diabetes. In those already affected by MASLD, coffee lowers the risk of cirrhosis and can improve survival rates among patients with advanced liver disease.

Choosing the Right Coffee

Experts recommend black coffee for optimal liver benefits. If the taste is too strong, sugar can be replaced with artificial sweeteners, and milk options should be low-fat or plant-based to avoid extra sugar and fat. Decaffeinated coffee can also provide benefits, particularly in managing diabetes, which is a risk factor for fatty liver.

Dr. Wakim-Fleming advises that consuming at least three cups a day can help prevent liver issues, while four to six cups may be beneficial for individuals with existing liver disease. However, excessive consumption can cause side effects like sleep disturbances, anxiety, or heart-related problems, and should be approached cautiously.