Chart for tracking the morning body temperature readings to assess thyroid and adrenal function
Taking the Basal Body Temperature
It is BEST to use a “shake down” thermometer. Digital thermometers may be used but are definitely not as accurate and thus throw the whole process off. Drug stores carry ovulation/Basal Body digital thermometers which are possibly OK but sometimes show hugely inaccurate fluctuations. I cannot stress enough the importance of a good thermometer as this will be the guiding light for appropriate treatment. You will not want to use an inaccurate thermometer as this will be your testing lab tool.
- Shake down thermometer the night before and place on nightstand.
- The very first thing upon awakening in the morning, place thermometer in armpit for 10 minutes or until it beeps if digital.
- Temperature must be taken before getting out of bed, stirring about, etc. If you forget this then skip that day and resume taking temperatures the next morning.
- Record temperature on graph and shake down the thermometer again to repeat the following morning.
- If temperatures are stable and do not vary more than 0.2 of a degree, still take temperature for an additional 5 to 7 days.
- If the temperatures vary more than several tenths, then record for 10 to 14 days.
- Women get the most accurate basal body temperature readings on the 2nd to 3rd day of onset of menses and following.
- Very young children may have a rectal temperature taken but the scale should be adjusted up 2 degrees on the chart to account for the internal body temperature vs basal temperature.
- It is best to take temperature after 12 hours of no food, exercise, or sexual excitement.
For more on the thyroid visit this article: Thyroid Support
For thyroid as it relates to the brain read this: Fixing the Brain Book 2