Do I have an underactive thyroid?

There is a simple test you can do at home to determine if you have an underactive thyroid. Take your own temperature.

The test

  1. Immediately upon wakening, and with a little movement as possible (stay in bed), place the thermometer under the tongue or in the rectum. Leave it there for ten minutes.
  2. Record the readings on three consecutive days.
  3. If the average temperature over the three days is less than 97.8F, then, according to Barnes, you may have hypothyroidism, or low iodine.

Can I help myself?

It would be an idea to consider taking an iodine supplement. Discuss this with a qualified naturopath, physician or nutritionist.