Bananas could help protect against AIDS

From ET’s SUDDENLY SOMETHING

“The humble banana may hold the key to powerful new treatments that can protect against the deadly AIDS virus, a new study has claimed. BanLec, a naturally occurring chemical in banana, is as effective against the AIDS virus as two anti-HIV drugs now in use, T-20 and maraviroc, the Daily Mail reported. In laboratory tests, American researchers observed that the lectin inhibits HIV infection by blocking the virus’ entry into the body. The chemical acts on the protein ‘envelope’ that encloses HIV’s genetic material. The researchers believe therapies based on BanLec could be used alone or in conjunction with other anti-HIV drugs.”