GLASGOW is the second unhealthiest city in the uk – with as many as 58 percent saying their current lifestyle could well lead them to an early grave, according to new research.

The study looked at the barriers the UK faces when it comes to being healthier and found that 22 percent claim that “expensive” healthy food is out of their reach, while 21 percent say they do not have a regular routine that would allow them to stick to a health regime.

Researchers surveyed adults in major cities across the UK and found Edinburgh also came in at number four, with 53 percent from the Scottish capital saying their current lifestyle would no doubt lead them to die early.

Birmingham, Sheffield and London were also among the unhealthiest in terms of the amount of alcohol they drink, how little they exercise and the amount of processed, high sugar foods they consume.

The research, by fitness app Freeletics, explored the nation’s fears surrounding health and well-being.

Daniel Sobhani, CEO of Freeletics, which commissioned the study as part of its Dare To Be Free campaign, said: “It’s extremely worrying that the majority of the nation are not living the healthiest lives they could be.

"Our study revealed a myriad of common barriers that get in the way of people being healthier and more active, and the fact that a shocking 88 percent feel powerless to change their lifestyle is something we want to change.

"As a company, we aim to encourage the public to free themselves from exercise excuses and dare to better their lifestyle.”

The survey found more than a quarter of the adult population feel the stresses and strains of modern life are the main barrier they face when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, leading to habits and addictions such as overeating and binge drinking.

And the same number - 26 per cent - blamed depression for unhealthy and inactive lifestyles.

More than half fear they will remain unhealthy forever, with 15 percent claiming they have no idea how to start living more healthily, and 14 percent saying they are too old to change.

A further 60 percent feel stuck in a vicious cycle of binge drinking, with one in five saying they wish they could stop but that it is impossible because of peer pressure and social anxiety.