Toomer's Coffee Roasters

Best Keto and Health-Focused Coffee

Coffee and Cancer: 9 Science-Backed Ways Coffee May Help Lower Cancer Risk

toomers coffee roasters and ongoing health research

Coffee is one of the most-studied beverages in nutrition science.

And while no single food or drink prevents cancer outright, a growing body of high‑quality research shows consistent, modestly protective associations between coffee consumption and several cancer outcomes. Below are nine evidence‑based ways coffee appears to help.

1) Strongest evidence — lower risk of liver cancer

Multiple large meta‑analyses and pooled studies report that higher coffee intake is associated with substantially lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Dose‑response analyses suggest each additional cup per day is linked with a roughly 10–15% lower HCC risk, and habitual drinkers (2–5 cups/day) show even larger relative reductions. Proposed mechanisms include improved liver enzymes, reduced inflammation, and beneficial coffee phytochemicals.

2) Reduced risk of chronic liver disease (a major cancer pathway)

Beyond primary liver cancer, regular coffee drinking has been associated with lower rates of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis — conditions that strongly predispose to HCC. This suggests coffee may act upstream by protecting liver health over decades.

3) Lower colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in some studies

toomers coffee roasters shop with confidence buy toomer's low acid coffee ffor better flavorSeveral cohort studies and meta‑analyses find modest inverse associations between coffee and colorectal cancer, especially for colon (vs. rectal) cancer and in certain populations. Some studies report protective effects for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, hinting at non‑caffeine compounds (polyphenols, diterpenes) as contributors.

4) Possible reduced prostate cancer risk and improved outcomes

Systematic reviews indicate higher coffee intake is generally associated with lower incidence of aggressive prostate cancer and with better outcomes in some analyses. Evidence varies by study design, but overall trends across multiple cohorts are supportive.

5) Small inverse associations for some female cancers (eg, endometrial, breast)

Meta‑analyses and pooled analyses suggest coffee may slightly lower endometrial cancer risk (likely via effects on insulin and estrogen metabolism) and may be neutral-to-protective for breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women — though effects are smaller and not uniformly reported.

6) Lower risk for some genitourinary cancers (kidney, bladder) in pooled data

A number of cohort meta‑analyses show a modest inverse association between coffee and renal (kidney) cancer; data on bladder cancer are mixed but do not support harm. These findings again point to antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory constituents in coffee.

7) Potential mechanisms: antioxidants, anti‑inflammatory, metabolic improvements

Coffee contains chlorogenic acids, cafestol, kahweol, and other polyphenols with antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory activity. Coffee is also associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes and improved insulin sensitivity — metabolic changes that may reduce cancer risk for insulin‑sensitive tumors (eg, endometrial, colorectal).

8) Important caveat — smoking confounds some associations (especially lung cancer)

Some studies have reported a positive association between coffee and lung cancer, but these are almost certainly confounded by smoking (people who smoke often drink more coffee). Well‑adjusted analyses generally remove the apparent lung‑cancer signal. In short: coffee itself is unlikely to increase lung cancer risk; smoking remains the dominant driver.

9) Safety note — temperature matters more than coffee itself

In 2016 the IARC (World Health Organization’s cancer agency) concluded coffee per se is not classifiable as carcinogenic, but very hot beverages (>65°C / ~149°F) are “probably carcinogenic” for esophageal cancer. Drink your coffee at a sensible temperature. Otherwise, current evidence leans toward neutrality or modest protection for many cancer types.

10) Choose A High-Quality, Lower-Acid Coffee You Enjoy Every Day

toomers coffee roasters healthier coffee cand cancer reduction
“I love my Toomer’s Coffee” Monica S.

If the research on coffee’s potential health benefits encourages you to make coffee part of your daily routine, the next step is simple: choose a high-quality coffee you’ll look forward to drinking every day. Consistency matters far more than chasing the latest health trend.

At Toomer’s Coffee Roasters, we’ve been producing premium specialty coffee since 2004 using our unique infrared roasting process, which creates a remarkably smooth cup that many customers find naturally lower in acidity than conventionally roasted coffees. While no coffee can prevent cancer or replace a healthy lifestyle, enjoying a flavorful, lower-acid coffee may make it easier to include moderate coffee consumption as part of an overall wellness-focused lifestyle.

If you’re looking for exceptional taste, premium specialty-grade beans, and a smooth, lower-acid cup, we invite you to discover the difference that Toomer’s Coffee can make.

toomers coffee roasters shop with confidence buy toomer's low acid coffee ffor better flavor

Bottom line (what readers and clinicians should know)

  • The strongest, most consistent protective association is for liver cancer and chronic liver disease.

  • For colorectal, prostate, renal, and some female cancers the evidence suggests modest protection, but results vary.

  • Most studies are observational (association, not definitive causation), though dose‑response patterns and plausible biological mechanisms strengthen the case.

  • Confounding factors (especially smoking) must be considered. Drinking very hot coffee may increase esophageal cancer risk; otherwise moderate coffee intake (1–4 cups/day) appears safe and often beneficial.

  • Coffee should be seen as one component of a healthy lifestyle (don’t substitute it for smoking cessation, healthy weight, vaccination, screening, and other proven prevention strategies).

References (selected, evidence‑based sources)

  1. Poole R, Kennedy OJ, Roderick P, Fallowfield JA, Hayes PC, Parkes J. Coffee consumption and health: umbrella review of meta‑analyses of multiple health outcomes. BMJ. 2017;359:j5024. https://www.bmj.com/content/359/bmj.j5024

  2. Bravi F, Bosetti C, Tavani A, et al. Coffee and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: a meta‑analysis. Hepatology. 2007; (and updated meta‑analyses). Example review: Kurozawa Y et al. 2016. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23660416/

  3. European Journal of Cancer Prevention. Coffee and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic liver disease: systematic review and meta‑analysis of prospective studies. 2017. https://journals.lww.com/eurjcancerprev/fulltext/2017/09000/coffee_and_the_risk_of_hepatocellular_carcinoma.2.aspx

  4. Cui Y, Zheng Y, et al. Coffee consumption and risk of colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta‑analysis. Nutrients / PubMed. 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30909640/

  5. Li Y, Zhang J, et al. Coffee consumption and colorectal cancer risk: meta‑analysis. Oncotarget. 2016. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4864536/

  6. Zhang X, Ugai T, et al. Coffee consumption and prostate cancer risk: systematic review and meta‑analysis. BMJ Open. 2021;11:e038902. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/11/2/e038902

  7. Health benefits review: Coffee Consumption and Cancer Risk: An Assessment of the Health Effects (review article). NCBI PMC. 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8562048/

  8. Grosso G, Micek A, et al. Coffee consumption and breast cancer risk: dose‑response meta‑analysis. 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33832295/

  9. WCRF / AICR: Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Liver Cancer (summary of evidence and dose‑response estimates). 2015/updates. https://www.wcrf.org/dietandcancer/liver-cancer/ (and related report PDF).

  10. Wang M, Hu K, et al. Coffee consumption and renal cancer: meta‑analysis. PMC 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8738141/

  11. Coffee & Health (Scientific organization summary): Bladder, kidney and prostate cancers — overview and citations. https://www.coffeeandhealth.org/health/health-conditions/cancer/bladder-kidney-and-prostate-cancers

  12. Reviews on mechanisms (antioxidants, cafestol, kahweol, chlorogenic acids): Coffee Consumption and Cancer — PMC review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9916720/

  13. Li X, et al. Coffee consumption and lung cancer: recent meta‑analyses highlight confounding by smoking. Scientific reports (2024) and commentary. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-62619-6

  14. JAMA / JAMA Oncology: Coffee Intake and Survival in Advanced or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer — examples of mixed findings and need for careful interpretation. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2770262

  15. IARC (WHO) Monographs Volume 116: Drinking coffee, mate, and very hot beverages — summary: coffee not classifiable as carcinogenic; very hot beverages probably carcinogenic. 2016. https://www.iarc.who.int/featured-news/media-centre-iarc-news-mono116/ and full monograph PDF: https://publications.iarc.who.int/_publications/media/download/5598/f49696e5e7a10f69ff3fc1cc673b3f77b4e8af43.pdf

U.S. Drinking Rate Hits Record Low as Coffee Becomes the Go-To Alternative

Why are so many people skipping cocktails and reaching for coffee instead?

New Gallup research shows U.S. alcohol use is at its lowest point since 1939 — and more Americans than ever see drinking as bad for their health. At the same time, specialty coffee, especially smooth low acid blends like those from Toomer’s Coffee Roasters, is becoming the go-to choice for people who want a healthier, more flavorful daily ritual.

toomers coffee roasters low acid coffee more popular that alcohol new gallup poll shows

Have you noticed how many people are skipping the after-work drink lately? You’re not imagining it. According to a brand-new Gallup poll, only 54% of U.S. adults now drink alcohol — that’s the lowest number since Gallup started asking the question back in 1939. Even more surprising? Over half of Americans now think that even “one or two drinks a day” is bad for your health.

That’s a big shift. And it’s especially true for younger adults. In the last two years alone, the percentage of 18–34-year-olds who drink has dropped by 9 points. Two-thirds of them say moderate drinking is harmful — which is almost double what it was in 2018. Clearly, people are rethinking their habits.

So… What’s replacing alcohol?

For a lot of people, the answer is simple: coffee. Not just any coffee, but really good coffee. Specialty coffee. Coffee you actually look forward to — the kind we roast here at Toomer’s Coffee Roasters.

Coffee still holds strong as America’s daily beverage ritual. The National Coffee Association says 66% of U.S. adults drink coffee every day, and a record 46% enjoyed specialty coffee just yesterday. That’s the highest it’s ever been.

Why Low Acid Coffee is Winning Hearts (and Stomachs)

Here’s where we’ve seen the biggest shift: people aren’t just drinking more coffee — they’re choosing coffee that’s better for them. That’s exactly why we focus on low acid, specialty-grade beans. Low acid coffee is gentler on your stomach and lets the true flavors of the bean shine through.

And we take it a step further with infrared roasting — a process that brings out rich, complex flavor without the bitterness or harsh aftertaste you sometimes get from traditional roasting. We’ve been doing this for 21 years, as a small, family-owned roaster, and we’ve seen firsthand how it can transform someone’s daily cup.

Coffee as the New Social Hour

The fun part? Coffee can be just as much of a social experience as grabbing drinks — without the hangover. Whether it’s an early morning pour-over at home, a latte with a friend, or a relaxed afternoon in your favorite café, coffee gives you that same sense of connection… just with a different buzz.

The Toomer’s Difference

  • toomers_coffee_roasters_logo_smallFamily Owned Since 2004 — 21 years of roasting and serving our community

  • Infrared Roasted — Precision heat for maximum smoothness and flavor

  • Low Acid Options — Perfect for sensitive stomachs

  • Specialty Grade Beans — From trusted farmers and microlot partners

The Bottom Line

As more people step away from alcohol, specialty coffee is stepping in. And not just as a caffeine fix — but as a healthier, more flavorful daily ritual. At Toomer’s Coffee Roasters, we’re here to make that cup something you truly look forward to.

So next time you’re skipping the drink menu, pour yourself something better. Check out a few of our top sellers below 👇

Product successfully added to your cart.View Cart

Coffee and Liver Health – What Does the Science Say

toomers coffee roasters coffee and liver health science says
Your morning cup might be your livers best friend according to the latest scientific evidence

Coffee and Liver Health: 8 Proven Ways Your Cup May Protect Against Liver Cancer and Damage According to Science

toomers coffee roasters low acid coffee and liver cancerCoffee isn’t just a morning pick-me-up — it’s a daily habit linked to better liver health in multiple large-scale studies. Among all beverages studied, coffee stands out as one of the most protective against liver cancer, chronic liver disease, and other liver-damaging conditions.

Here are eight, cited, evidence-based reasons your coffee habit could be helping your liver.

1) Lowers Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Risk

toomers coffee roasters espresso double shot or doble

HCC is the most common primary liver cancer. Meta-analyses show each extra cup of coffee per day can reduce HCC risk by 10–15%, with benefits seen in both caffeinated and decaf drinkers.

References: Bravi et al., Hepatology 2007; Kennedy et al., BMJ Open 2017

2) Slows Chronic Liver Disease Progression

People with hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or fatty liver who drink coffee regularly have lower fibrosis progression and cirrhosis rates, and a reduced risk of liver-related death.

References: Setiawan et al., Gastroenterology 2015; Saab et al., Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014

3) Reduces Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Risk

toomers coffee roasters low acid decaf flavoredHabitual coffee drinkers are less likely to develop NAFLD, and those who already have it tend to have milder disease. Coffee’s anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing compounds may play a role.

References: Vitaglione et al., J Nutr 2020; Marventano et al., Nutrients 2016

4) Improves Liver Enzyme Levels

Elevated ALT and AST levels can signal liver injury. Coffee drinkers typically show lower liver enzymes, even when adjusting for alcohol intake, BMI, and other lifestyle factors.

References: Ruhl & Everhart, Gastroenterology 2005; Xiao et al., Hepatology 2014

Product successfully added to your cart.View Cart

5) Rich in Anti-Fibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds

Chlorogenic acids, cafestol, and kahweol in coffee help reduce oxidative stress and inhibit processes that lead to scarring (fibrosis) in the liver.

References: Arauz et al., Nutrients 2017; Cavin et al., Food Chem Toxicol 2002

6) Benefits Apply to Both Caffeinated and Decaf

toomers coffee roasters low acid coffee auburn city blendStudies find similar liver protection in caffeinated and decaf coffee drinkers, making it an option for those sensitive to caffeine.

References: Bravi et al., Hepatology 2007; Freedman et al., N Engl J Med 2012

7) Cuts Risk of Death from Liver Disease

A large UK Biobank study found coffee drinkers had a 49% lower risk of death from chronic liver disease — with ground coffee showing the strongest association.

Reference: Kennedy et al., BMC Public Health 2021

8) Coffee Cleared by WHO as a Carcinogen Risk

In 2016, the IARC reviewed 1,000+ studies and concluded coffee is not a carcinogen — and may actually protect against liver and endometrial cancers.

Reference: IARC Monographs Volume 116, 2016

Practical Tips for Liver-Friendly Coffee Drinking

  • Moderate to high intake works best: Aim for 2–4 cups/day unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

  • Temperature matters: Avoid drinking coffee extremely hot (>65°C / 149°F) to reduce esophageal cancer risk.

  • Choose quality beans: Specialty-grade coffee retains more beneficial compounds.

  • Avoid excess sugar and syrups: These can counteract metabolic benefits.

Remember coffee is not an instant cure for liver disease but more of a preventative action you can take. There’s a saying that “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

Severe liver issues should always be monitored and treated by a qualified medical professional.

Bottoms up!

Product successfully added to your cart.View Cart

References

  1. Bravi F, Bosetti C, Tavani A, et al. Coffee drinking and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: a meta-analysis. Hepatology. 2007. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17461492/

  2. Kennedy OJ, et al. Coffee consumption and liver cancer: a meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2017. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/7/5/e013739

  3. Setiawan VW, et al. Coffee drinking and reduced risk of liver cancer: the Multiethnic Cohort Study. Gastroenterology. 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25777951/

  4. Saab S, et al. Coffee and tea intake and risk of advanced liver disease in the US population. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24036073/

  5. Vitaglione P, et al. Coffee reduces liver steatosis in overweight subjects by modulating pathways of the gut–liver axis. J Nutr. 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32091586/

  6. Marventano S, et al. Coffee and tea consumption in relation to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Nutrients. 2016. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27801878/

  7. Ruhl CE, Everhart JE. Coffee and caffeine consumption reduce the risk of elevated serum ALT activity in the United States. Gastroenterology. 2005. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15825074/

  8. Xiao Q, et al. Coffee drinking and alcohol consumption in relation to liver enzymes. Hepatology. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24585442/

  9. Arauz J, et al. Coffee and liver disease: an update. Nutrients. 2017. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28257038/

  10. Cavin C, et al. Coffee diterpenes prevent hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Food Chem Toxicol. 2002. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11893426/

  11. Freedman ND, et al. Association of coffee drinking with total and cause-specific mortality. N Engl J Med. 2012. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22646574/

  12. Kennedy OJ, et al. Association of coffee drinking with reduced risk of liver disease: UK Biobank study. BMC Public Health. 2021. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-021-10991-6

  13. IARC Monographs Volume 116. Drinking coffee, mate, and very hot beverages. WHO/IARC. 2016. https://www.iarc.who.int/featured-news/media-centre-iarc-news-mono116/