Water is something we really don’t really think about – we drink it, we filter it, we think it works.
But emerging technologies have begun to imply that the widespread concept of universal water behaviour in the body is an overestimate.
For example, Molecular Resonance Effect Technology (MRET) has multiple claims, including that MRET water is better for hydration, immune support and is antimicrobial.
It is also often claimed to be way more efficient than both Reverse Osmosis (RO) and alkaline water.
These ideas are exciting, but they are also wedged within the gaps where science continues to work.
Today’s column explores MRET water, what it purports to do and what we are aware of.
What is MRET water?
MRET is a physical process that changes the geometry of water molecules, while retaining its chemical structure and pH.
Supporters of the technology say MRET reshapes water into a layered, more compact form, which is similar to the water that lives in our cells.
This is known as a “polarised-oriented multilayer structure”.
Due to this reorganisation, MRET water is purported to have lower viscosity and greater molecular mobility, including through cell membranes.
That is to say, this water is supposedly easier for the body to use, with some studies indicating that it can be absorbed by cells up to three times faster than ordinary water.
MRET is commonly employed after filtration processes like RO, so it acts on already purified water, rather than purifying it.
Aside from purportedly improved hydration, other potential effects of MRET water that are being explored are:
According to lab studies, MRET-treated water can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Some work shows that bacterial growth is inhibited by up to 92% to 100%.
But this data indicates that this is more likely to be a bacteriostatic effect, where bacterial growth and reproduction is inhibited, rather than bactericidal, where bacteria is killed.
There are also speculative claims that MRET water may impede viral activity, specifically in terms of affecting hydrogen bonding and weak molecular interactions (Van der Waals forces).
In theory, this could hinder viral spike protein production and make it more difficult for viruses to attach to human cells.
However, it remains unproven, even in the lab.
Studies in animals have also raised the possibility that MRET water might kickstart immune cells like neutrophils and macrophages.
These are the cells that recognise and remove foreign particles, so more activity could be associated with a stronger immune response.
In other infected mouse models, MRET water has been linked to decreased inflammation.
While there have been promising results, these are preliminary studies and should not be directly extrapolated to humans.
Arguably, the more astonishing claim being made in animal studies pertains to cancer.
In a study involving over 500 mice, there was a 76% reduction of tumour cells with a “preventive treatment” regime and a 55% reduction of with a “therapeutic treatment” regime.
These effects were thought to be linked with improved immune response, more natural resistance and induced changes in tumour ecology.
However, it’s important to note that human cancer is far more complex and findings in animal studies do not often translate to effective therapies for humans.
Supportive hydration
Patients undergoing chemotherapy often look for safe, supportive ways to stay well, especially between treatment cycles.
While medical care remains the foundation of cancer treatment, optimising hydration is an important part of overall recovery and comfort.
Chemotherapy places significant stress on the body.
Good hydration supports:
- Circulation and nutrient delivery
- Kidney function and metabolic clearance
- Overall energy and physical resilience.
MRET-activated water is increasingly being used in some wellness settings as a structured hydration option, alongside standard care.
Some patients who include MRET water as part of their daily hydration routine during chemotherapy have described:
- Feeling less drained after treatment sessions
- A smoother recovery period between cycles
- Better ability to maintain daily function and appetite
- A general sense of being more hydrated and balanced.
A number of patients have also shared that their blood counts appeared to recover more smoothly between cycles, allowing them to stay on schedule with treatment.
These are personal anecdotal observations rather than predictable outcomes, but they can be meaningful to patients navigating demanding therapies.
Current evidence is still evolving, and MRET water should be viewed as a complementary hydration strategy rather than a medical intervention.
It can be incorporated as part of a holistic care plan, alongside nutrition, rest and medical supervision.
In a treatment journey where small improvements in comfort and recovery can make a meaningful difference, supportive measures like hydration deserve attention, provided they are used responsibly and alongside proper medical care.
Where does it stand?
There are still a number of questions about MRET water though, including:
- Limited independent research
Thus far, most of the research on MRET derives from proprietary sources and the scientists involved in the technology itself.
There is little scope for independent replication.
- Lack of human clinical studies
No large, long-term human trials exist (to date) to back up the claims of faster hydration, and antimicrobial/antiviral and anti-cancer effects.
MRET water will remain outside of mainstream medical practice without such trials.
- The permanence of “structured water”
Such water remains debatable.
Although water does form temporary molecular clusters that will break apart after only a moment, the extent to which they can be modified externally in a lasting and biologically significant way is strongly questioned.
It’s also important to note that MRET is not a replacement for filtration.
It does not remove contaminants, and that is an essential need.
So, where does it fit in?
Existing research indicates that MRET water is most accurately defined as a post-filtration improvement as a type of activated, or structurally arranged, water, which may produce an increase in hydration efficiency.
For now, it’s better to consider it a promising, yet experimental, technology – one that may, at some point, disrupt the understanding of how hydration can have an impact on your overall health, well-being and lifespan.
Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
