12/29/2025
๐ Folinic acid (also known as leucovorin) is an activated form of folate. It bypasses common genetic, metabolic, and immune blocks that prevent the brain from using folate effectively.
It is one of the most researched and promising nutrient-based interventions in ASD, especially in children with speech, language, and social communication delays.
Why Folinic Acid May Help in ASD: Cerebral Folate Deficiency (CFD) โฌ๏ธ
A subset of children with ASD have reduced folate transport into the brain, even when blood folate is normal.
๐ This is often caused by:
* Folate-receptor alpha autoantibodies (FRAA)
* MTHFR variations
* Inflammation blocking folate transport
๐ When folate cannot reach the brain effectively, it impacts:
* Neurotransmitter production
* Mitochondrial function
* Myelination
* Speech and language pathways
Folinic acid has the unique ability to bypass these blocks and raise folate levels in the central nervous system.
See part 2 for reported improvements and which children may see most benefit.