Meet Jennie – Participant in Alba’s Prevent study
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.
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“I like to think that I'm giving my body something positive”
Amid Jennie’s pregnancy, the family began building a house in Jämtland. This new home provides a perfect setting for their favorite activities, like skiing and running. They remain a very active family, dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, and continue to pursue adventures, travel, spend time in nature, and enjoy evening swims in the lake. Although life is different with children, they have adapted well.
“Health is important to me and my family as we live an active life, but I don't obsess over what I eat. I probably eat “well” In the eyes of many, but I don't overthink it because I've had a balanced diet for a long time. I like to think that I'm giving my body something positive – adding good things rather than avoiding certain foods, and listening to what makes my body feel good and what doesn’t. The body needs energy. I feel the same way about Juni, it's better to give her a little extra of the good stuff. It's all about being able to do things, be active, travel, take care of ourselves – to manage life, quite simply”, she says.
For Jennie, balancing their own lifestyle with external influences is key. She emphasizes home-cooked meals and outdoor activities while sharing some challenging aspects of managing her child’s health.
"I believe the most challenging aspect is dealing with factors you can't control, like preschool, even though we think the preschool is fantastic! We don't provide the food there, which can be a bit challenging despite their excellence. That's why we're even more diligent at home, ensuring proper nutrition at breakfast and dinner. As Juni gets older, another challenge might be managing sweets if she starts wanting them herself. It's hard to control that. Otherwise, there haven't been any major challenges for us so far. The most important thing is to ensure we all feel good, spend time outside, and explore."
When asking Jennie if she has any words for other parents out there, she smiles and says:
“The best advice I've received: Everything is a phase. The good things as well as the bad. Everything changes, and nothing is forever.”
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