Jennie, 33, originally from Jämtland, today lives in Stockholm with her partner Nicklas. The couple met six years ago and were initially not sure if they wanted to have children, but they also didn’t know if it was even possible since Jennie didn't ovulate regularly. To Jennie's surprise, once she started ovulating again, she quickly became pregnant, and their daughter Juni was born. Today, the family and Juni, 17 months old, are participating in Alba’s ongoing study Prevent.
“When I first found out about the study via a post on LinkedIn, I became very interested. Above all, it was curiosity, but I also felt that it was something I wanted to participate in for Juni's sake. I strongly believe that we can influence our health and well-being based on how we live, feel and eat, amongst other things,” Jennie explains.
The study began in January 2024, and the first phase is now complete. As Jennie transitions into the next phase, she reflects on her experience so far.
“So far, it has been very exciting. I was curious about the initial phase – what questions would be asked and how they would be categorized. I think the questions reveal a lot about Alba's approach and what matters for gut health. I’m also eager to learn more about Juni's gut flora and how it functions. What is there to learn and discover?” she says.
A key aspect of the process for the participants involves recording their baby’s cries. For Jennie, this has been a fascinating part of the study.
“I told my boyfriend, 'Remind me to record the next time Juni is crying,' and then the recording took place,” Jennie says, laughing.
“Whatever makes life better for Juni”
Talking about expectations of the study, Jennie shares what she hopes to learn and achieve:
“Maybe there is some small hack we don’t know yet that has a big meaning, but isn't really that big or troublesome. For example, today there is a lot of talk about blood sugar for adults - like drinking vinegar before meals, how it can change the “curve”. Could there be anything similar for children? Or something you absolutely shouldn't do? Whatever makes life better for Juni. I want to know as much as possible, and learn what can be learned.”
Even before joining the study, Jennie was deeply interested in gut health. Having faced her own share of stomach issues, she gained a lot of knowledge by examining and adjusting her lifestyle.
"Before I began my studies, I considered becoming a dietitian with a focus on stomach and intestinal health. Although my path took a different turn, my passion for the subject remained strong. I managed to turn my own stomach issues around, and now my digestive health is better than ever. This transformation was driven by lifestyle changes – reducing stress, practicing mindful breathing, and, most importantly, adjusting my diet. Reflecting on my daughter Juni, I realize that we’ve rarely noticed her having any stomach issues," she shares.
