AIIMS-Trained Doctor Shares 7 Common Coffee Mistakes That Can Harm Your Gut and Liver

Coffee is one of the most loved drinks in the world, and for many people, it is an important part of their morning routine. It gives energy, boosts focus, and even supports liver health when consumed correctly. However, according to Dr Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, several common coffee habits can actually harm your gut and liver over time.

In an Instagram video shared on November 12, Dr Sethi explained that while coffee has many benefits, how and when you drink it matters a lot. He listed seven daily coffee mistakes that people often make without realizing their negative effects on the body.

The first mistake, he said, is drinking coffee on an empty stomach. Many people grab their morning cup before breakfast, but this habit can cause problems. Coffee increases the amount of acid in your stomach. If there is no food to balance it, this acid can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea, heartburn, or even gastritis in the long run.

Another common mistake is drinking too much coffee in a day. Dr Sethi recommends limiting caffeine intake to no more than four cups daily. Having more than that can put stress on your liver and disturb your digestion. It may also cause sleep problems, anxiety, and a racing heartbeat.

The third mistake is drinking coffee late at night. Caffeine can stay in your body for several hours and may keep you awake or affect your sleep quality. Poor sleep, in turn, affects liver repair and overall gut function.

Dr Sethi also mentioned that adding too much sugar and cream to your coffee is another major mistake. Though it may taste better, this combination increases calorie intake and can lead to fatty liver or gut inflammation. He suggests using less sugar or switching to healthier alternatives like cinnamon or a small amount of milk.

The fifth mistake is replacing water with coffee. Many people drink multiple cups of coffee but forget to stay hydrated. Coffee is a mild diuretic, which means it makes your body lose water. Not drinking enough plain water during the day can lead to dehydration and poor liver function.

Another harmful habit is drinking coffee immediately after meals. Dr Sethi explained that doing this can stop your body from absorbing important minerals like iron and zinc. It’s better to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before drinking your coffee.

Lastly, he warned against drinking very hot coffee. Studies show that drinking liquids that are too hot can damage the lining of your throat and stomach. It is best to let your coffee cool slightly before drinking.

Dr Sethi emphasized that when consumed wisely, coffee can actually benefit the liver. Research shows that moderate coffee drinkers have a lower risk of liver diseases such as fatty liver and cirrhosis. Coffee also contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and help reduce inflammation.

However, these benefits only apply if coffee is consumed in moderation and with proper timing. Drinking coffee the wrong way can have the opposite effect, damaging your digestive system and liver health.

He advised coffee lovers to always pair their coffee with a healthy meal, avoid excess sugar, and give their bodies enough rest and hydration. Small changes in daily habits, he said, can make a big difference in long-term health.