The loss of body weight and the jejunal atrophy induced by DEX in sucklings is prevented by adding GLP-2. Giving DEX or GLP-2 + DEX to lactating mothers enhances lipid uptake in their suckling offspring. In marked contrast, a month after lactating dams were given GLP-2 or GLP-2 + DEX, there was reduced lipid absorption in the postweaning animals. Thus, giving GLP-2 + DEX during lactation may be useful to enhance lipid uptake in the suckling offspring, without adverse effects on body weight or intestinal characteristics. However, the late effects of this treatment on lipid absorption were of concern, and could be potentially deleterious to the nutritional well-being of the animal.