Gut Instinct

AFTER MY REVITALISING experience at a wellness clinic in Switzerland, which I chronicled in the last issue of The Monegasque™, I could feel my body literally craving more. The transformative retreat had awakened a deeper awareness of my body’s needs and a desire to continue nurturing it. When friends recommended the Mayrlife resort in the Austrian Alps as a medical spa to help address my pre-diabetes, I knew I had to give it a try. It felt like the perfect next step in my wellness journey, and I was eager to see how this renowned health retreat could support my long-term health goals.

What I didn’t expect was how dramatically my perspective on food and eating would change in just one week. I had always thought of eating as a natural act, something we’ve been doing since birth. Little did I know that learning to eat properly is one of the most important steps to caring for your body and living a long, healthy life.

The Mayrlife Clinic, located on the picturesque banks of Lake Altaussee, traces its roots to the early 20th century and the pioneering work of Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr. He developed the “Mayr Cure,” a holistic approach emphasizing digestive health as the foundation of overall well-being. Dr. Mayr believed that many illnesses stem from poor gut health, making proper digestion, detoxification, and nutrition essential for vitality and longevity.

His method focused on three key principles: rest, cleansing, and training the digestive system; promoting mindful eating; proper chewing; and a gut-friendly diet. The Mayrlife Clinic blends these traditional methods with modern medical science to create a comprehensive wellness program.

My re-education began the moment I arrived at the clinic, nestled in a stunning location with sweeping views of the aqua-blue lake framed by pine-covered mountains. I started with a thorough exam that tested for intolerances and analyzed my blood, leading to a personalized therapy plan based on those findings.

Each day offered a perfect mix of medical check-ups, therapies like cryotherapy and therapeutic massages, exercise sessions, and inspiring, life-changing meal times. Unlike typical detox clinics with questionable juices, the food here was absolutely delicious and tailored just for me. The nutritionists crafted a personalized plan, explaining the science behind each recommendation. It was about nourishment, not deprivation, and finding joy in every meal. We were encouraged to disconnect from modern devices and live in the moment, savoring each mouthful.

In our fast-paced lives, we’re bombarded with dietary advice, often from food companies pushing products with little nutritional value. Yet, we rarely learn how to eat mindfully. Schools and health campaigns focus on calories and food groups but neglect the essentials of mindful eating and understanding how food affects our bodies. Discovering mindful eating was a game changer, transforming my relationship with food, health, and longevity.

I learned that digestion starts in the mouth, with chewing setting the stage for proper digestion. By eating more slowly and savoring each bite, I noticed a significant difference in how my body processed food.

The medical treatments I received at Mayrlife were truly life-changing. Normally, I would avoid daily doctor’s visits at all costs, but at Mayrlife, I found myself looking forward to each appointment. The team was not only professional and knowledgeable but also incredibly caring. Following an initial medical examination that included a series of tests for intolerances, body scans, and a full blood analysis, a personalized program was designed specifically for me.

Perhaps the biggest awakening at Mayrlife, however, was discovering the power of the gut. Often called our “second brain,” the gut houses up to 70% of the immune system and regulates digestion, mood, and mental clarity. Its direct communication with the brain is vital for both physical and emotional well-being. I realized how long I had overlooked this essential connection.

It wasn’t just about savoring food; I was learning to eat in a way that supported my gut health. The order of my meals became important too—starting with vegetables for fiber, followed by proteins and finally carbohydrates. This simple change helped prevent blood sugar spikes, a crucial tip for managing my pre-diabetes.

But it wasn’t just the food or the expertise of the staff that made my experience at Mayrlife life-changing. The breathtaking setting was awe-inspiring. Each morning, I’d walk or jog around the lake, inhaling the fresh air as my stress melted away. The connection between nature, well-being, and the insights I was gaining created an atmosphere of complete rejuvenation.

Reflecting on my experience, I now understand how critical the gut is to our overall health. Before Mayrlife, I had no idea how central the gut was to my body’s function and longevity. Learning to nourish it properly was perhaps the most important lesson I took away from my time at the resort.

I now see that learning to eat properly is fundamental, but why are these essential life skills so rarely taught? It’s a question that continues to baffle me.

By Luiz F. Costa Macambira

Founder, Publisher, CEO and Executive Editor

Luiz F Costa Macambira is the Founder, CEO, and Executive Editor of The Monegasque™. A long-time resident of Monaco, he specializes in writing about "all things Monte Carlo." Previously, Luiz served as the CEO, publisher, and executive editor of Forbes magazine (Monaco and Netherlands editions). For more of his insights, you can follow him on Instagram at @lcostamac.