**Detroit's Water: Chlorine Crashing Summer Enzymes?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 24, 2026

The summer heat in Detroit can be brutal, and after a long day, nothing beats a cool glass of water. But what if that seemingly refreshing drink was subtly undermining your digestion? The city’s tap water, while treated, contains chlorine, a disinfectant that, while keeping us safe from harmful bacteria, might be impacting our gut health. This is especially concerning during the summer when we tend to drink more water. Let’s explore how Detroiters can protect their digestive enzymes from the potential downsides of chlorinated water.

Chlorine, used to disinfect Detroit’s water supply, can react with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs). These DBPs, while present in small amounts, have been linked to various health concerns, including potential disruption of digestive enzyme function. Digestive enzymes are crucial for breaking down food, allowing our bodies to absorb nutrients effectively. Impaired enzyme function can lead to bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts, especially during the summer when we’re often indulging in heavier, less structured meals.

So, what can a Detroiter do? The answer lies in a multi-pronged approach: filtration, dietary support, and informed supplementation.

First, let’s tackle the water itself. Investing in a high-quality water filter is paramount. While pitcher filters like Brita can remove some chlorine, they often fall short in removing DBPs. A better solution is a DIY activated carbon filter.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a cost-effective activated carbon filter:

1. Gather your materials: You’ll need a large, food-grade plastic container (a 5-gallon bucket works well), a smaller container that fits inside the larger one (leaving a few inches of space around the sides and bottom), activated carbon (available at pet stores or online – make sure it’s food-grade), filter cloth (like cheesecloth or muslin), and some gravel or small stones.
2. Prepare the containers: Drill small holes in the bottom of the smaller container. This will allow the filtered water to drain through.
3. Layer the filter: Line the bottom of the smaller container with a layer of gravel or small stones. This helps with drainage and prevents the carbon from clogging the holes.
4. Add the activated carbon: Fill the smaller container with activated carbon, leaving a few inches of space at the top.
5. Cover with filter cloth: Place a layer of filter cloth on top of the carbon to prevent sediment from entering.
6. Assemble the filter: Place the smaller container inside the larger container.
7. Filter your water: Slowly pour tap water into the smaller container, allowing it to filter through the carbon and into the larger container.
8. Collect and store: Collect the filtered water from the larger container and store it in a clean, food-grade container in the refrigerator.

This DIY filter, while not as sophisticated as a whole-house system, provides a significant improvement in water quality at a fraction of the cost. Remember to replace the activated carbon regularly, typically every 2-3 months, depending on water usage.

Next, let’s focus on dietary strategies to support digestive enzyme production. Certain foods naturally boost enzyme activity. Incorporating these into your summer diet can help counteract any potential negative effects from chlorinated water.

Here are some enzyme-rich summer recipes featuring Michigan-grown produce:

• Grilled Pineapple with Ginger and Mint: Pineapple contains bromelain, a powerful digestive enzyme. Grilling it caramelizes the sugars, enhancing its flavor. Ginger and mint further aid digestion and add a refreshing twist. Source your pineapple responsibly, as it’s not local to Michigan.
• Papaya and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing: Papaya is another excellent source of digestive enzymes, specifically papain. Avocado provides healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption. The lime dressing adds acidity, which can stimulate enzyme production.
• Fermented Pickles and Sauerkraut: Fermented foods are packed with probiotics, which support gut health and indirectly enhance enzyme function. Look for locally made pickles and sauerkraut at Eastern Market or your local farmers market.

These recipes are not only delicious but also provide a natural boost to your digestive system. Remember to chew your food thoroughly, as this is the first step in the digestive process and helps to activate enzymes in your saliva.

Finally, let’s consider digestive enzyme supplementation. While a healthy diet and filtered water are ideal, some individuals may benefit from additional support, especially during periods of increased water consumption or digestive distress.

Here’s how to determine if you might need digestive enzyme supplements:

• Monitor your symptoms: Pay attention to any digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or indigestion, especially after drinking tap water or eating large meals.
• Consider your water consumption: If you’re drinking a lot of tap water, even filtered, you might be exposing yourself to higher levels of DBPs.
• Consult with a healthcare professional: A doctor or registered dietitian can help you determine if digestive enzyme supplementation is right for you.

If you decide to supplement, choose a broad-spectrum enzyme formula that contains a variety of enzymes, such as amylase (for carbohydrates), protease (for protein), and lipase (for fats). Take the supplements with meals, as directed on the label.

It’s crucial to stay informed about Detroit’s water quality. The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) publishes regular water quality reports that detail the levels of chlorine and DBPs in the city’s water supply. Compare these reports to the EPA’s maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and consider your individual sensitivity. If you notice significant fluctuations or consistently high levels, it might be wise to increase your filtration efforts or consider alternative water sources.

One common mistake Detroiters make is assuming that boiling water removes chlorine. While boiling can reduce some chlorine, it doesn’t eliminate DBPs. Filtration is the most effective method for removing both chlorine and DBPs. Another pitfall is relying solely on bottled water. Many bottled water brands use tap water as their source, and the plastic bottles themselves can leach chemicals into the water, especially when exposed to heat.

By taking proactive steps to filter your water, support your digestive system with a healthy diet, and consider supplementation when necessary, Detroit residents can mitigate the potential negative impacts of chlorinated tap water on digestive enzyme function and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable summer. Remember, knowledge is power, and by staying informed and taking control of your water quality and diet, you can protect your gut health and thrive in the Motor City.