Filter coffee or pressed coffee? Harvard-trained AIIMS gastro doctor breaks down it's effect on gut health and liver
Coffee's impact on metabolism, liver, and gut health is detailed by Dr. Saurabh Sethi. Enjoying plain, paper-filtered coffee with protein and fats, not on an empty stomach, can offer benefits like reduced fatty liver risk and support weight manag...
By ET Online | Updated:
Coffee isn’t just a morning pick-me-up—it’s a drink that can impact your metabolism, liver, and gut health in ways many people don’t realise. Harvard-trained AIIMS gastro doctor, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, breaks down the science behind coffee, explaining when it can boost your health and when it can cause problems like acid reflux, bloating, or disturbed sleep. From the type of coffee to how and when you drink it, small choices can make a big difference.
Can it spike blood sugar?
Dr. Sethi says coffee is best enjoyed with protein and healthy fats, not on an empty stomach. For those with fatty liver, moderate coffee intake is linked to lower fatty liver and fibrosis risk. Plain coffee doesn’t spike blood sugar and can indirectly support weight management by reducing appetite and improving insulin sensitivity.Which coffee is better- filtered or pressed?
He warns that unfiltered coffee—like French Press, espresso, Turkish, or South Indian filter coffee—can slightly raise LDL cholesterol, while paper-filtered coffee removes cholesterol-raising compounds and is healthier for the heart. Coffee may cause bloating or acidity, especially on an empty stomach or in sensitive individuals.Studies also suggest coffee can lower the risk of liver and colon cancer. Dr Sethi recommends drinking plain, paper-filtered coffee with just a splash of milk and avoiding sugary syrups. Most people do well with one to three cups a day, ideally six to eight hours before bedtime. By understanding the type, timing, and preparation of coffee, you can enjoy your cup while supporting your metabolism, liver, and gut health—all without the side effects.
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Coffee benefits
Nutrition experts from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine highlight more reasons coffee can benefit your health. Regular coffee drinkers, women in particular, are less likely to die from major conditions like coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or kidney disease. Coffee may help the body process sugar better, lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes, and even reduce the chance of heart failure. Caffeine is linked to a lower risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, while both regular and decaf support liver health. Dark roast coffee protects DNA, and studies show coffee drinkers are less likely to develop colorectal cancer and stroke.Download
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