New research concludes a rapidly emerging gene – found in a large and growing number of bacterial samples – makes bacteria immune to all drugs. Bacteria that acquire and reproduce this gene could spread so quickly that they could make all antibiotics redundant and signal the end of modern antibiotics. The gene, known as New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM-1), was first found in pneumonia and E. coli bacteria taken from a single Swedish patient in 2009. But NDM-1 was found in 73 samples of Enterobacteriaceae (bacteria) taken from patients in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as 37 from the UK, who had traveled to these countries for elective surgery. Importantly, the NDM-1 gene was found on plasmids, DNA structures that can be easily copied and transferred between evolving bacteria, suggesting, wrote the researchers, “an alarming potential to spread and diversify among bacterial populations.” Worse, the infections were community acquired, meaning they exist in the general environment. No drugs, including those in development, are effective against NDM-1. This study was released August 11, 2010 and will be published in the September 2010 print issue of The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Meantime, the full-text version of the study can be accessed online at http://bit.ly/bEGfvg by journal subscribers or to those who register on the site; registration is free.
At LTP Medical our foundational approach to preventing and treating bacterial infections includes the use of Allimed, Oregacillin, Glutathione Complete, Green Light, Organic Reds, and Vitamin D3. Be sure your body also has sufficient levels of immune-boosting probiotics, minerals like Zinc and Selenium, and vitamins like A, C and E. There are simple blood tests that licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctors run to determine what your body really needs in terms of probiotic, vitamin and mineral supplementation. As we face a new generation of bacteria on the planet, it is best to optimize your immune function with proper nutrients and the removal of negative stress. And when possible and necessary, partner with a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor for individualized attention and to strengthen your approach to optimal health.
To your health!
Posted by Dr. Gina Cushman 
A recent review by the UK Foods Standards Agency came out claiming that organic foods are no better than the less expensive conventionally grown foods. A closer look at that review reveals some truths underlying the growing media attention and debate over whether or not organic foods are worth the extra buck. I am re-printing an excellent post on this topic by Tom Philpott who farms and cooks at Maverick Farms, a sustainable-agriculture nonprofit and small farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Resveratrol is a naturally occurring chemical found in the skins and seeds of red grapes, peanuts and in Polygonum, a popular and well respected herbal medicine from the Far East. Currently, the 
A new research study, published in the 
