<P> C radiocarbon dating of Tollund Man indicated that he died in approximately 375--210 BC . The preserved tender soft tissues of his body are the consequence of the acid in the peat, along with the lack of oxygen underneath the surface and the cold climate of the Nordic countries . The acid in the peat, needed for the preservation of a human body, is caused by a bryophyte named Sphagnum . Sphagnum fights against degradation due to resistant phenolic compounds contained in their cell walls . Due to the acidity of peat, bones are typically dissolved rather than preserved . </P> <P> Examinations and X-rays showed that the man's head was undamaged, and his heart, lungs and liver were well preserved . The Silkeborg Museum estimated his age as approximately 40 years and height at 1.61 metres (5 ft 3 in), a relatively short stature even for the time . It is likely that the body had shrunk in the bog . </P> <P> On the initial autopsy report in 1950, doctors concluded that Tollund Man died by hanging rather than strangulation . The rope left visible furrows in the skin beneath his chin and at the sides of his neck . There was no mark, however, at the back of the neck where the knot of the noose would have been located . After a re-examination in 2002, forensic scientists found further evidence to support these initial findings . Although the cervical vertebrae were undamaged (these vertebrae are often damaged as a result of hanging), radiography showed that the tongue was distended--an indication of death by hanging . </P> <P> The stomach and intestines were examined and tests carried out on their contents . Scientists identified the man's last meal as porridge or gruel made from grains and seeds, both cultivated and wild . Approximately 40 kinds of seeds were identified, but the porridge was primarily composed of four types: barley, flax, false flax (Camelina sativa) and knotgrass . From the stage of digestion it was concluded that the man had eaten 12 to 24 hours prior to his death . Porridges were common for people of this time . Because neither meat nor fresh fruit was found in the last meal, it is suggested that the meal was eaten in winter or early spring when these items were not available . </P>

What was the cause of the tollund man's death