An international team of researchers has made a concerning discovery about the commonly prescribed antibiotic, rifaximin, which is often given to patients with liver disease. They found that its widespread use has contributed to the rise of an almost untreatable strain of the “superbug”, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE). This strain is not only resistant to the commonly used antibiotic vancomycin but has now developed resistance to daptomycin, one of the last remaining options for treating VRE infections, which are particularly dangerous for hospitalized patients.
Published in the journal Nature, this study was led by experts from the University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity and Austin Health. It highlights a crucial issue: we need to rethink how antibiotics are used, especially considering the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance. This study’s findings couldn’t have come at a more relevant time, as the United Nations recently committed to tackling the crisis of antimicrobial resistance, aiming to reduce the millions of annual deaths associated with resistant infections.
The Research
This research took eight years and combined expertise from molecular microbiology, bioinformatics, and clinical science. Using advanced genomics—the study of DNA—scientists discovered that VRE bacteria exposed to rifaximin underwent genetic changes. These changes were linked to resistance not only to vancomycin but also to daptomycin. Laboratory experiments and clinical data confirmed that rifaximin triggered these changes, altering the VRE bacteria in ways never seen before.
Dr. Glen Carter, a Senior Research Fellow at the Doherty Institute, emphasized that their findings challenge the assumption that rifaximin is “low risk” for causing antibiotic resistance. The study showed that VRE exposed to rifaximin developed resistance to daptomycin in a unique way, which raises concerns about the spread of these super-resistant strains within hospitals. The team is investigating how easily these resistant strains might move between patients.
Dr. Adrianna Turner, a Research Officer at the Doherty Institute, explained that rifaximin’s impact goes deeper than expected. It causes changes in an enzyme called RNA Polymerase within VRE, activating a previously unknown gene cluster. These genetic shifts alter the bacterial cell membrane, making them not just resistant to one antibiotic, but potentially multiple ones, including crucial drugs like daptomycin. Dr. Turner likened it to bacteria gaining new “superpowers,” making them even tougher to defeat.
Associate Professor Jason Kwong, an Infectious Diseases Physician at Austin Health, pointed out two major implications of this research. First, doctors need to be cautious when treating VRE infections in patients who have taken rifaximin, as it may compromise the effectiveness of daptomycin. Testing for resistance is essential before deciding on a treatment. Second, regulatory agencies need to factor in these “off-target” effects when approving new antibiotics, understanding that one drug might create resistance to others, even if they work differently.
The Possible Side Effects of Antibiotics
Antibiotic Resistance: A Long-Term Concern
Antibiotics can be life-saving, no doubt about it. They’ve revolutionized medicine by giving us the power to fight off serious infections that once posed life-or-death risks.
However, the message is clear: antibiotic resistance is a growing threat, and studies like this remind us of the urgent need for smarter, more sustainable antibiotic use. And only using them when absolutely needed.
Overusing or misusing antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance. This means that bacteria can evolve and become resistant to the medications we rely on. It’s not an immediate side effect you’ll feel in the moment, but it’s a long-term consequence that affects all of us. When antibiotics don’t work, infections that were once easily treatable can become dangerous.
Digestive Upset: Your Gut Takes a Hit
One of the most common complaints is digestive distress. This could be anything from mild nausea to full-on diarrhea. Antibiotics don’t discriminate—they wipe out the bad bacteria and the good. Your gut is home to trillions of beneficial bacteria that help with everything from digestion to strengthening the immune system to mood regulation, and antibiotics can throw that whole system out of whack. Sometimes, it takes weeks—or even months—for your gut to recover after a course of antibiotics.
Yeast Infections: A Not-So-Fun Side Effect
For many, particularly women, antibiotics can trigger yeast infections. Because antibiotics kill off good bacteria along with the bad, they can disrupt the balance of your microbiome, giving yeast the green light to multiply. This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like itching, irritation, and discharge. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m off-balance here!”
Allergic Reactions: From Mild to Severe
Some people discover they’re allergic to antibiotics the hard way—by taking them. Mild reactions can include things like rashes, itching, or hives. But in more severe cases, antibiotics can trigger anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment. Always pay attention to how your body reacts when you start a new antibiotic.
Photosensitivity: Watch Out for the Sun
Certain antibiotics can make you more sensitive to sunlight. This means you might get sunburn more easily or experience rashes after sun exposure. If you’re on antibiotics like tetracycline or doxycycline, it’s best to slather on that sunscreen or stay in the shade.
Joint and Tendon Issues: More Than Just Aches
Some antibiotics, like fluoroquinolones, have been linked to tendon damage. This is particularly worrisome if you’re active or athletic because the drug can weaken tendons, making them more prone to tears or even rupture. The Achilles tendon is often the most affected, and it can be a long road to recovery if it happens.
Fatigue and Brain Fog: Feeling Off-Kilter
It’s not uncommon to feel unusually tired or “foggy” when taking antibiotics. This is your body’s way of coping with the stress of fighting an infection, but the antibiotics themselves can sometimes amplify this sense of fatigue. Some people describe it as a cloud hanging over them—just feeling off and not themselves.
Metallic Taste or Dry Mouth: An Unpleasant Aftertaste
A lesser-known side effect is a metallic taste in your mouth or feeling like it’s unusually dry. It’s a weird, subtle thing, but enough to make eating less enjoyable. Certain antibiotics can leave you with a persistent aftertaste that lingers long after you’ve taken the last dose.
Impact on the Liver and Kidneys: A Strain on Detox Organs
Some antibiotics can be hard on the liver and kidneys, especially if you already have underlying health conditions or are on long-term antibiotics. This is why doctors often monitor liver and kidney function during a longer course of treatment. If you notice symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) or dark urine, it’s essential to get in touch with your healthcare provider right away.
Mood Swings and Emotional Impact: The Mental Health Connection
Interestingly, some research has linked antibiotic use to mood changes, anxiety, and even depression. Since antibiotics impact the gut, and the gut is closely tied to mental health, it’s not too far-fetched to experience some emotional ups and downs. A disrupted microbiome can alter neurotransmitter levels, potentially affecting your mood.
Natural Solutions to Boost the Immune System
When it comes to boosting the immune system, I have a handful of tried-and-true supplements that I turn to every time—no matter the type of infection or who’s in need. These remedies have something for everyone, whether you’re young or old, dealing with a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection.
And the good news? The bacteria or viruses can’t become resistant to these remedies; in fact, they have a cumulative effect so that they strengthen the immune system and prevent the next infection from overtaking the body.
Here are my go-to immune boosting supplements.
Accelerated Colloidal Silver™
This isn’t just any colloidal silver. Accelerated Colloidal Silver™ has the smallest nano silver particle size possible, which means it’s highly effective. But here’s the real magic: it’s infused with Scalar technology. What does that mean? It has the frequency of silver and healing codes added to the mix, creating a product that’s as much about energy as it is about the physical silver particles. This boosts the immune system and targets foreign pathogens on multiple levels.
With Scalar technology, Accelerated Colloidal Silver™ is more “charged” than standard colloidal silver, packing a higher energy potential. It’s like a double punch—addressing both the physical and energetic levels. The Scalar frequencies are designed to:
- Clear emotional and physical shock
- Boost thymus health
- Support lung function
- Target and neutralize viruses and bacteria
Acceleradine® Iodine
If there’s a powerhouse supplement, it’s Acceleradine® Iodine. It’s antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-parasitic. It also gives a huge boost to your metabolism and thyroid, the master gland that oversees your immune system, hormones, and energy levels. It even promotes DNA repair, which is critical in this age of viral challenges. Iodine helps detox the cells of toxins that lower the immune system and allow the bad bugs to take over. Furthermore, iodine cleans the blood so the liver can do its job.
Acceleradine® isn’t just iodine—it’s monatomic, meaning it has 100% absorption, and it’s charged with Scalar frequencies for deep detox. It stimulates energy production (ATP) in the cells, increasing it from 2 to 36 units, giving the whole body a massive immune and energy boost.
Accelerated Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray™
This is my go-to for upper respiratory issues. It’s double the concentration of the standard Accelerated Colloidal Silver™, specifically targeted to handle sinus and nasal infections. It’s especially helpful for:
- Clearing out sinusitis
- Relieving blocked noses
- Battling bacterial and viral infections that settle in the sinuses
Accelerated Liver Care™
The liver plays an integral role in strengthening your immune system, cleansing toxins that inhibit the body’s ability to fight off infections, and improving energy and metabolism.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all supplement. Every herb and nutrient in this formula is chosen for its unique role, and each ingredient works in harmony with the others to create a powerful synergy. Here’s what it can do for you:
- Detox and Purify: The blend clears “Damp Heat” and “Toxic Heat” from the liver and gallbladder, ensuring that energy (or Qi) flows freely throughout your body. This means balance, rejuvenation, and a cleaner internal system.
- Break Down & Prevent Stones: If you’ve dealt with gallstones or fatty liver, this formula helps keep things moving smoothly, breaking down stones and supporting a healthy liver.
- Ease Gallbladder Pain: It’s designed to relieve discomfort in the gallbladder while keeping bile flowing freely.
- Boost Detox Pathways: Accelerated Liver Care™ speeds up both phases of liver detox, helping your body effectively clear out environmental toxins, bad hormones, and pollutants.
- Improve Liver Function: It enhances microcirculation in the liver, promoting better oxygen and nutrient flow for optimal performance.
- Balance Blood Sugar & Cholesterol: This supplement can naturally help manage blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol, supporting both heart and liver health.
- Guard Against Infections: With anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties, it helps keep your liver protected from infections.
- Emotional Balance: It’s not just about the physical—this blend can help relieve emotional tension, anger, and frustration, which are closely tied to liver health according to traditional medicine.
The Power-Packed Ingredients
Let’s talk about what’s inside this unique formula—each ingredient was chosen for a reason:
- Kukti (Picrorhiza kurroa): A staple in Ayurvedic medicine, this herb activates autophagy, helping the liver clear out damaged cells and reduce fat buildup.
- Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra): Known as the “Stone Breaker,” it fights bacteria, breaks down stones, and supports healthy digestion.
- TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid): A powerhouse for liver and brain health, TUDCA promotes bile flow, aids in toxin removal, and supports cognitive function.
- Eclipta (Bhringaraj): This Ayurvedic herb detoxifies the liver, improves blood circulation, and even supports skin health and cholesterol management.
- Jin Qian Cao: Excellent for clearing “Damp Heat” and dissolving stones, it’s a hidden gem in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- Bupleurum: A detoxifying powerhouse, Bupleurum supports adrenal function, boosts energy, and may help reduce inflammation in the liver.
- Milk Thistle: A tried-and-true liver protector, Milk Thistle helps repair damage and shields the liver from toxins.
- Skullcap (Scutellaria): This herb isn’t just about liver health—it’s known for supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even aiding in sleep and anxiety relief.
- Pau Pereira: A South American herb known for its anti-cancer and antiviral properties, it’s a great defender against infections.
- Artemisia Capillaris: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it detoxifies the liver, supports bile flow, and helps with fatty liver conditions.
- Andrographis: A potent immune booster, this herb helps the liver clear toxins and fight off infections.
- Calcium D-Glucarate: A powerful detoxifier, this ingredient ensures toxins are fully excreted from the body instead of being reabsorbed.
- Thai Black Ginger: This antioxidant-rich herb supports energy production, fat burning, and overall vitality.
Why Accelerated Liver Care™ Stands Out
This isn’t just another liver supplement; it’s a thoughtfully designed formula that combines high-potency extracts, precision, and a holistic approach to wellness:
- High Potency Extracts: Concentrated at 10:1, these extracts ensure you’re getting the most active components from each herb.
- Synergistic Blend: The ingredients are carefully balanced to complement each other, maximizing their individual benefits for liver health.
- Rigorous Testing: Each ingredient goes through strict quality checks, ensuring purity and potency.
- Liver & Gallbladder Focus: The formula targets specific meridians for optimized liver and gallbladder health.
- Scalar Technology: Enhanced with Scalar frequencies, this supplement takes effectiveness to another level.
Holistic Benefits Beyond the Liver
Accelerated Liver Care™ doesn’t just focus on liver health; it offers a range of benefits that elevate your overall well-being:
- Better Digestion: By improving bile flow, it aids digestion and reduces bloating which can be disrupted by antibiotics or a bacterial infection.
- Skin, Hair, and Nails: Eclipta and Milk Thistle boost the health of your hair and skin, giving them a vibrant, youthful glow.
- Emotional and Mental Balance: It’s not just about detoxing your body—this formula helps calm your mind, reduces stress, and leaves you feeling more balanced.
- Inflammation Control: Many ingredients, like TUDCA and Bupleurum, are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties to keep chronic inflammation in check.
With Accelerated Liver Care™, you’re not only supporting your liver—you’re investing in your long-term health, immune system, and vitality. From detoxifying and protecting your liver to enhancing energy levels and even calming your mind, it’s a true game-changer for anyone serious about well-being.
Accelerated Liver Care™ is way more than just another liver supplement—it’s a carefully crafted blend that brings together the best of traditional wisdom and modern science. This formula goes beyond simple liver support, tackling everything from detoxification to overall well-being in a truly comprehensive way. Here’s what makes it a standout option for anyone looking to give their liver—and their overall health—a serious boost.
Accelerated C60™
Accelerated C60™ is a super-antioxidant supplement made from 60 carbon atoms structured like a tiny soccer ball. It’s prepared with organic, non-GMO olive oil, and its purity is tested rigorously. C60 stands out for its antioxidant properties, protecting cells from free radical damage. I use it to support overall health and immunity, knowing that it’s a reliable line of defense against oxidative stress.
Accelerated Leaky Gut Bundle
The Accelerated Leaky Gut Bundle is my go-to protocol when it comes to healing the gut quickly and supporting long-term resilience, especially if you have taken antibiotics. It’s not just about throwing any probiotics into your system—it’s about nurturing the right bacteria for a healthy, balanced gut, which directly impacts your immune system. This bundle includes three essential components: MegaSporeBiotic™, MegaPre™, and MegaMucosa™, each playing a unique role in getting your gut back to optimal health.
MegaSporeBiotic™: Setting the Stage with the Right Bacteria
MegaSporeBiotic™ is a game-changer because it’s not just a typical probiotic; it’s a sporebiotic. Unlike most probiotics, which often don’t make it past the harsh stomach acid, Megaspore survives and gets to where it’s needed—the intestines. Here’s what makes it stand out: it doesn’t overload your system with random bacteria strains. Instead, it focuses on promoting the right microbial diversity, encouraging a balanced environment in your gut without overpopulating it with strains that aren’t beneficial. This is crucial because an imbalanced gut can do more harm than good when you’re trying to build a strong immune system.
MegaPre™: Feeding and Supporting the Good Guys
Once you’ve set the stage with Megaspore, MegaPre™ comes in to nurture those beneficial bacteria. Think of MegaPre™ as food for the good guys. It’s carefully designed to help those strains from Megaspore flourish, reinforcing all the positive changes you’re making in your gut. A well-fed microbiome is a thriving microbiome, and that’s exactly what MegaPre™ delivers—fueling the bacteria that play a vital role in immunity, digestion, and overall health.
MegaMucosa™: Repairing and Strengthening the Gut Barrier
The final piece of the puzzle is MegaMucosa™. This supplement focuses on restoring the gut lining, which can often be damaged from poor diet, stress, or chronic health issues. It helps seal up the tight junctions and rebuild the mucosal barrier—the protective layer that keeps toxins out and nutrients in. MegaMucosa™ includes immunoglobulins for enhanced barrier function and detox, amino acids that are essential for the mucosal lining, and citrus polyphenols to support gut integrity. When your gut lining is strong, it acts as a frontline defense for your immune system, ensuring you’re more resilient to whatever comes your way.
This trio works together beautifully, supporting a diverse and balanced gut environment that not only aids digestion but also fortifies your immune system. It’s about more than just taking a probiotic—it’s about rebuilding your gut from the ground up with the right bacteria, making sure your body is equipped to handle life’s challenges with ease.
Quintessential 0.9
For hydration and replenishment, Quintessential 0.9 is a must-have. This supplement is a blend of pure isotonic seawater and spring water, packed with essential trace minerals and electrolytes. It mimics the exact balance of minerals in our blood plasma, making it perfect for cellular hydration. Staying hydrated is crucial for a strong immune system, and this supplement helps optimize it effortlessly.
Thorne Vitamin D-5,000
Vitamin D is a cornerstone for immunity, and Thorne’s D-5,000 delivers a high-quality, potent dose. Many of us don’t get enough sun exposure to produce adequate vitamin D, and this supplement bridges that gap. It supports not just immune health but also bone strength, muscle mass, and even brain function. I love that it’s formulated with D3, a more absorbable form, and is free of unnecessary preservatives.
These are my immune-boosting go-to’s, covering all the bases—antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, detoxification, and cellular support.
They’re powerful, versatile, and designed to keep your immune system in top shape, no matter what comes your way.
Conclusion
This research reminds us just how urgent it is to rethink our approach to antibiotics. While they’ve been crucial in fighting infections, the rise of superbugs like VRE resistant to even our last-resort treatments shows just how fragile our defenses can be when antibiotics are overused or misused. The implications of this study are clear: we need smarter, more cautious use of antibiotics and increased awareness of the long-term effects they can have—not just on the individual, but on global health.
With antimicrobial resistance continuing to grow, it’s up to us to support responsible practices in both medicine and policy, ensuring these vital tools remain effective for future generations.