Thyroid Temperature Test

Hypothyroid - Self Test

To test for under-active thyroid:

Keep a mercury Basal Body Thermometer (do not use a digital thermometer) to below 95 F and place it by your bed before going to sleep at night.
On waking, place the thermometer under your arm for a full 10 minutes. It is important to make as little movement as possible. Lying and resting with your eyes closed is best. Do not get up until the ten minute test is complete.
Record your temperature and the date for at least 5 consecutive days. In women, this should be done 3-4 days after the menstrual period has begun. At this time thyroid hormone is reaching its highest point and cellular metabolism is optimal. (Women, do not do test during ovulation time.)
To get your average temperature add the 5 separate temperatures and divide by 5.
According to Barnes, a temperature of greater than 98.0° F denotes a normally functioning thyroid. Temperatures from 97.6 to 98.0° F are marginal while temperatures less than 97.6° F indicate hypothyroidism.
It’s very important that the test must be conducted under optimal conditions in order to be an effective indicator of the thyroid state.

*This test is described by Dr. Broda Barnes, M.D. in his book "Hypothyroidism."

*More accurate than a blood test since medical studies have shown that a blood test will not show low thyroid unless thyroid is 50%, or more, under-active.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you have any health problems consult a healthcare practitioner before embarking on any course of treatment.