The Dutch are the world’s tallest citizens, with the average Dutch male measuring 184 cm (6 feet) tall. Studies show that the Dutch continue to grow and that by 2012 their men will average 186 cm (6 ft 1 in) and their women 172 cm (5 ft 7 in). In early 2000, tall activists persuaded the Dutch government to raise the ceiling levels stipulated in the nation’s building codes by 20 cm.

It has been suggested that the reason for the marked height difference is Holland’s vast cow population. A high consumption of animal protein and milk – and an excellent national health system – is a likely explanation.