FORGET the fear of heart attacks and strokes, it's the frustration of not being able to squeeze into clothes that's the top reason for adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Vanity, it seems, is a far more powerful motivator than any medical advice with 51% of Scots admitting the thought of being criticised for wearing ill-fitting clothes has brought about change.

A survey, commissioned by private medical insurer BCWA, also revealed 22% embarked on a healthier lifestyle after seeing themselves in less-than-flattering holiday pictures.

That was the same percentage who admitted to changing their ways as a result of medical advice.

And more than one in 10 (13%) indicated wanting to look good at a special event such as a wedding or an important birthday was their prime source of motivation.