Child Brain Development and Autism Research | Dr. Don Colbert (Ep. 4)

A hope-filled, fact-based look at rising autism rates, early warning signs, brain toxins, and breakthrough research on cerebral folate deficiency and folinic acid.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Don Colbert, M.D., Mary Colbert, and Kyle Colbert tackle one of the most emotionally charged topics of our time:
autism and child brain development. They unpack why autism diagnoses have exploded from
1 in 150 children (in 2000) to approximately 1 in 31 today, why boys are diagnosed over three times more often
than girls, how toxins and medications may influence risk, and a groundbreaking discovery involving
cerebral folate deficiency and folinic acid (leucovorin) that is giving some families astonishing results.

🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has risen dramatically — now roughly 1 in 31 children (about 3.2%).
• ASD is over three times more common in boys than in girls, even though girls have more autoimmune disease overall.
• Autism is a brain development disorder affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior patterns.
• Multiple factors may contribute: toxins, medications (e.g., Tylenol in pregnancy), older parental age, environmental chemicals, plastics, and possibly vaccines in vulnerable children.
• Many children on the spectrum show low cerebral folate levels due to antibodies blocking folate receptors in the brain.

👶 Early Signs of Autism Parents Should Watch For

• Lack of eye contact or loss of eye contact after it had developed.
• No response to their name; the child seems more focused on objects than people.
• Limited interest in social interaction; prefers toys, objects, or repetitive tasks instead of people.
• Delayed or absent language, difficulty using words in context, or repeating phrases with a monotone voice.
• Repetitive movements such as flapping, spinning, or rocking to self-soothe.
• Sensory sensitivities to light, sound, textures, tastes, and smells.
• Delayed motor skills (walking, using utensils, handwriting) and often poor sleep and higher anxiety.

🧬 New Research: Cerebral Folate Deficiency & Folinic Acid

One of the most exciting parts of this episode is the discussion of cerebral folate deficiency. Many kids with autism have
autoantibodies that block folate receptors in the brain. Their brain is “starving” for folate, even when they take regular folic acid or
methyl-folate supplements.

• A specialized blood test called the FRAT test (Folate Receptor Autoantibody Test) checks for these blocking antibodies.
• An older, repurposed form of folate called folinic acid (leucovorin) can cross into the brain in higher amounts.
• In some children, speech and communication begin to improve within weeks — sometimes even days of starting folinic acid under medical supervision.
• Because folinic acid can “turn the brain on,” some kids may temporarily become more agitated or wired; Dr. Colbert often pairs it with
  calming nutrients like magnesium glycinate or GABA to support sleep and mood.

⚠️ This episode strongly encourages parents to work with a practitioner who understands FRAT testing and folinic acid, rather than trying to self-treat.

🧠 Dr. Colbert’s Natural Support Plan for Kids on the Spectrum

• Consider FRAT testing (under a qualified doctor) to evaluate cerebral folate deficiency.
• Use folinic acid (leucovorin) under medical supervision when the FRAT test is positive, titrating the dose carefully.
• Remove dairy completely (milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream): calcium and casein can block folate receptors and interfere with folinic acid’s benefits.
• Limit or avoid gluten and ultra-processed foods, which often aggravate symptoms and gut inflammation.
• Support detox pathways with nano glutathione to help the body bind and remove heavy metals and environmental toxins.
• Repair the gut — many children with ASD have gut issues. Dr. Colbert highlights goat milk colostrum, targeted probiotics (such as Akkermansia and Beyond Biotic), and fiber as core tools.
• Reduce exposure to plastics, phthalates, pesticides, and street drugs (including marijuana) before and during pregnancy.

✝ Faith, Hope & Encouragement for Families

Throughout the episode, the Colberts remind parents that facts can change, but God’s Word does not. Every child on the spectrum
is deeply loved by God and created with purpose. While the medical world continues to learn more about autism, families can anchor themselves
in truth, pray for wisdom, and pursue the best of both faith and science as they fight for their child’s future.

If this episode encouraged you, Dr. Colbert, Mary, and Kyle ask that you share it with other parents, grandparents, and churches
so more families can hear that there are real, practical steps they can take — and that there is still hope.