The morning sublingual temperature is used as a simple home guide to metabolic state.
The method is based on measuring the temperature immediately after waking up, while the body remains at rest and is not influenced by external factors.
This approach helps assess the stability of thermoregulation, which indirectly reflects the functioning of the thyroid gland and hormonal systems. This method is used as an indicator of the basal metabolic rate.
Low values or pronounced instability may indicate dysregulation of hormonal systems.
How to perform the test
- keep the thermometer by the bed to measure the temperature immediately after waking up;
- take the measurement under the tongue without getting up or changing body position;
- conduct the measurement at the same time every day;
- record the results in a table or diary;
- repeat the procedure for 4–5 days to obtain the average temperature.
How to interpret the results
An average sublingual temperature below 37°C is considered a sign of reduced metabolic rate. This condition is often associated with decreased thyroid function.
If the temperature graph shows pronounced fluctuations from low to high values and back, it may indicate unstable cortisol production.
However, such conclusions always require confirmation through laboratory tests, as temperature depends on many factors.
Why the test results should be interpreted with caution
The morning temperature is influenced by sleep quality, the number of hours of rest, stress, nutrition the day before, viral processes, the state of the vascular system, and individual thermoregulation characteristics. Therefore, fluctuations of a few tenths of a degree are quite common.
The method is suitable for monitoring dynamics but not for self-diagnosing endocrine diseases.
When to see a doctor
- if the average morning temperature is consistently below normal;
- if the temperature fluctuates significantly from day to day;
- if there are additional symptoms of reduced metabolism;
- if there is suspicion of hormonal regulation disorders.
Only a specialist can conduct the necessary laboratory and instrumental studies to make an accurate diagnosis and select treatment.
