This invention relates to deliberately increasing growth hormone in swine during the last 2 weeks of pregnancy through a 3 week lactation. This has the effect of increasing fetal energy storage during late pregnancy which resulted in the newborn piglets having marked enhancement of the ability to maintain plasma concentrations of glucose and free fatty acids when fasted after birth. Likewise, treatment of the sow during lactation results in increased milkfat in the colostrum and an increased milk yield. These effects are important in enhancing survivability of newborn pigs and weight gain prior to weaning.