Dr. Broda Barnes, M.D. was an endocrinologist that came up with a simple test for thyroid function. He believed that thyroid issues were the cause of many modern day ailments and was grossly under-diagnosed.
The test he designed is considered to be sub-clinical (meaning it's not definitive). However, it is very useful at catching a glimpse of thyroid function regardless of what the lab values read.
1. Get a basal thermometer (nowadays digital) and put it by your bed.
2. First thing in the morning before moving your body get a temperature reading from your armpit.
3. Do this for 7-10 days and take the average.
An average temperature below 97.8° F indicates hypothyroidism (a low functioning thyroid). Temperatures above 98.2° F indicate hyperthyroidism (abnormally increased thyroid activity).
"If the temperature is below 98.7 then you should see a holistically oriented doctor." - Stephen Langer, M.D.
Note: this test is sub-clinical and does not take the place of medical evaluation.