If you've ever visited the Netherlands, one thing stands out—literally. The Dutch are the tallest people in the world. On average, Dutch men stand at 6 feet (183 cm), while Dutch women are around 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm).
But why are the Dutch so tall? Is it their diet? Their environment? Genetics? Or is it something in their beloved stroopwafels? Let’s dig into the science, history, and fun facts behind the height of the Netherlands.
The Dutch weren’t always giants
Believe it or not, the Dutch were not always among the world’s tallest people. In the 18th century, the average Dutchman was about 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm), which was actually shorter than many other Europeans at the time.
So, what changed? Over the last 150 years, the average height of Dutch men has increased by nearly 8 inches. That is one of the fastest recorded height increases in human history.
This rapid growth has fascinated scientists, leading to multiple studies on the genetics, diet, lifestyle, and healthcare system of the Netherlands.
The Dutch diet
If you’ve ever been to the Netherlands, you’ll notice one thing at every meal—dairy.
From a young age, Dutch children consume large amounts of milk, cheese, and yogurt, all of which are rich in calcium and protein, essential nutrients for strong bones and healthy growth.
Studies show that a high dairy intake can lead to greater bone growth during childhood and adolescence. Since the Dutch consume more dairy than almost any other country, it makes sense that they might be growing taller.
So, could cheese and milk be the secret behind Dutch height? It is definitely a factor, but it is not the only one. Curious about more facts on Dutch food? Check out my blog on traditional Dutch food!
Did natural selection make the Dutch taller?
While nutrition plays a big role, it is not the whole story. Another reason for Dutch height could be natural selection.
A fascinating study by researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that taller Dutch men tend to have more children than shorter men. Over generations, this could mean that tall genes are passed on more frequently, leading to an increasingly tall population.
In simple terms, taller men were more successful at finding partners and having kids, which means their tall genes spread faster in the population.
This theory could explain why the Netherlands has seen such a dramatic increase in height over the last century.
Excellent healthcare & public health
The Netherlands consistently ranks among the best healthcare systems in the world. The Dutch government ensures that every citizen has access to high-quality medical care, vaccinations, and nutrition advice from childhood.
Good healthcare means:
- Fewer childhood diseases (which can stunt growth)
- Better maternal care (ensuring healthier babies at birth)
- Early nutrition guidance (helping children reach their full growth potential)
Many countries where malnutrition and poor healthcare are common have stunted growth in their populations. The Dutch, on the other hand, have benefited from one of the best healthcare systems in the world, contributing to their impressive height.
A wealthy, well-nourished nation
Economic prosperity plays a significant role in a nation’s overall height. The Netherlands is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, meaning that:
- Most people can afford healthy food
- There is less stress on families (chronic stress can affect growth in children)
- Children receive proper nutrition from an early age
Studies have shown that countries with higher income levels tend to have taller populations because of better access to food, healthcare, and overall living conditions.
When you combine good food, great healthcare, and a strong economy, you get a country of tall people.
Active lifestyles & cycling everywhere
Another fun theory is that the Dutch are always on the move.
The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and many Dutch people grow up riding bikes everywhere instead of relying on cars.
Cycling and an active lifestyle could play a role in bone strength and muscle development, helping people reach their full height potential.
While this theory is not scientifically proven, staying active is definitely a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and it is another reason why the Dutch seem to be thriving.
But what about Stroopwafels? Can they make you tall?
Now, let’s talk about the real MVP of Dutch cuisine: the stroopwafel.
If you are unfamiliar, a stroopwafel is a delicious Dutch treat made of two thin, crispy waffle cookies stuck together with a layer of caramel syrup. They are best enjoyed placed over a cup of hot coffee or tea so the caramel melts just right.
Now, I'm sorry to say that although the Dutch do eat A LOT of stroopwafels, these delicious treats do not make you taller. But while stroopwafels might not make you taller, they certainly make life sweeter. And if the Dutch eat them and they are the tallest people in the world, maybe there is some magic in these waffles after all.
Final thoughts: why the Dutch rule the height charts
So, why are Dutch people so tall? It turns out it is a mix of:
- A dairy-rich diet (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Good genetics (tall genes being passed down)
- Top-tier healthcare (ensuring kids grow strong and healthy)
- Economic stability (better living conditions mean better growth)
- An active lifestyle (biking, walking, and enjoying the outdoors)
It is not just one thing—it is a perfect combination of nutrition, genetics, and a healthy lifestyle that has made the Dutch the tallest people in the world.
So next time you visit the Netherlands, grab a stroopwafel, enjoy a bike ride, and do not be surprised if you feel a little short standing next to a Dutch friend.
