11 Evidence-Based Facts: Coffee vs Tea Health Benefits Compared

7. Liver and metabolic-organ protection

One of the clearest areas where coffee stands out is liver health. Multiple studies link regular coffee intake to lower rates of fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver-related mortality. The protective mechanisms aren’t fully nailed down, but coffee’s bioactive compounds—beyond caffeine—seem to influence liver enzymes, inflammation, and fat metabolism in beneficial ways. For people with elevated liver enzymes or at risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, moderate coffee consumption is often cited as a helpful, low-cost habit to discuss with a clinician. Tea also contributes antioxidants that support metabolic organs, but the strongest evidence for liver-specific protection across large populations favours coffee. As always, benefits depend on how the drink is taken—heavy cream, sugar, or calorie-dense mix-ins will change the picture.