How the Super Bugs developed - and how you can protect yourself

A prime example of inappropriate prescribing is for coughs and colds. They are not caused by bacteria at all, but by viruses. And antibiotics work only on bacteria and not on virus. Nevertheless, nearly a half of children with common colds who visit a doctor are treated with antibiotics. Since children catch an average of three to eight colds each year, they may be given many courses of unnecessary antibiotics. In fact children with colds, ear infections, sinus infections, bronchitis and sore throats, account for a staggering three quarters of all antibiotic prescriptions.

The best defence against infection - whether bacterial or viral - is as Louis Pasteur realised, a healthy host defence or strong immune system. But a strong immune system is built on good nutrition - and our knowledge of the key dietary elements that support a powerful immune system has expanded greatly in the last few years. In addition to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, the following four nutrients have been shown to be powerful immune enhancers.