Using Body Temperature and Pulse Rates to Evaluate Thyroid Function
Thyroid function plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy production, and overall health. While blood tests are commonly used to assess thyroid health, some experts advocate for the use of body temperature and pulse rate measurements as additional tools for evaluating thyroid function. This approach, pioneered by doctors like Broda O. Barnes and Raymond Peat, offers a non-invasive method to complement standard thyroid assessments.
Body Temperature as a Thyroid Indicator
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate body temperature. In hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive, body temperature tends to be lower than normal. Dr. Barnes recommended the following method for temperature testing:
Measure oral or underarm temperature immediately upon waking, before getting out of bed
Normal temperature range: 97.8°F to 98.2°F (36.6°C to 36.8°C)
Temperatures consistently below 97.8°F (36.6°C) may indicate hypothyroidism
Temperatures consistently above 98.6°F (37°C) may suggest hyperthyroidism
It's important to note that factors such as menstrual cycle, environmental temperature, and stress can affect body temperature readings.
Pulse Rate and Thyroid Function
Thyroid hormones also influence heart rate and pulse. Dr. Raymond Peat observed that pulse rate could be a valuable indicator of thyroid function:
A resting pulse rate between 80-85 beats per minute (bpm) is considered optimal for thyroid health
Consistently low pulse rates (50-70 bpm) may indicate hypothyroidism
High pulse rates may suggest hyperthyroidism or elevated stress hormones.
Implementing Temperature and Pulse Testing
To effectively use these methods:
Measure temperature and pulse rate first thing in the morning, before getting out of bed
Take readings for at least three consecutive days
For menstruating women, take measurements during menses or when not ovulating
Consider environmental factors and stress levels when interpreting results
Limitations and Considerations
While temperature and pulse measurements can provide valuable insights, they should not replace standard thyroid function tests. Factors such as stress, illness, and medications can affect these readings. Additionally, highly trained athletes may naturally have lower resting pulse rates. I suggest using them along side standard lab tests.
Professional Guidance
It's crucial to work with a knowledgable healthcare provider or nutrition professional when evaluating thyroid function. They can help interpret temperature and pulse data in conjunction with blood tests and clinical symptoms to provide a comprehensive assessment of thyroid health. I highlight knowledgable because many family doctors are not knowledgable in this area and will only pull TSH which tells us virtually nothing. Here is the full panel you need to truly evaluate your thyroid:
Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Free T4 (FT4)
Free T3 (FT3)
Total T4
Total T3
Reverse T3 (RT3)
Thyroid Antibodies
Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb)
Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb)
Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulin (TSI)
Thyrotropin Receptor Antibodies (TRAb)
Additional Tests
T3 Uptake
Thyroxine-binding Globulin (TBG)
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