Metabolic Rate

The metabolic rate is a complex measure that cannot be defined solely by thyroid hormone function, but rather is influenced by various factors, including the rate of carbon dioxide production, water and calorie disposal, pulse rate, and body temperature 1.

Basal body temperature is not a reliable indicator of metabolic rate, as it can be influenced by factors other than thyroid hormone function, such as environmental temperature and resting heart rate 1. A more accurate measure of metabolic rate can be obtained by measuring the rate of carbon dioxide production, which can give a rough idea of the metabolic rate 1.

Low metabolic rates are often associated with cold extremities, low pulse rate, and a drastically less efficient way of obtaining energy, known as glycolysis 2. Glycolysis is a less efficient way to produce energy, resulting in less carbon dioxide and less energy production 2.

The metabolic rate is heavily influenced by thyroid hormone, but can be falsely elevated by adaptive stress hormones, which can lead to energy-wasting ways of metabolizing 3. A simple set of self-diagnostics, including pulse rate and underarm body temperature, can be used to estimate the current status of the metabolic rate, thyroid health, and energy production 3.

The Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is a more accurate measure of metabolic rate, which measures how much oxygen is consumed at rest 5. This method was used in the 1930s, before the influence of the pharmaceutical industry, and is still considered a reliable measure of metabolic rate today 5.

Temperature is a rough approximation of metabolic rate, and changes in temperature throughout the day can indicate changes in metabolic rate 6. Low thyroid people often compensate with stress hormones, which can lead to energy-wasting ways of metabolizing and a decrease in metabolic rate 6.

Dietary strategies, such as consuming fiber and avoiding polyunsaturated fats, can help to support metabolic rate and energy production 7.