FIVE ALTERNATIVES TO THE DREADED CHOCOLATE, SWEETS AND CRISPS! Around this time of year, a lot you you guys and girls will be working towards your new years fitness goals. A large part of this may be working harder down the gym or in your sports/activity of choice.  You need to remember though, that if you are not complimenting your new fitness drive with a good diet, you may as well jump back on the sofa and get another box set out, because the abs will not be coming out to say hello in time for summer, thats for sure! A lot of you may find that snacking inbetween your meals may be the biggest problem, so the grilla team have come up with five healthy alternatives to the junk snacks. Blueberries Did you know that much of the power of blueberries lies in their color? That deep-blue hue is a by-product of flavonoids — natural compounds that protect the brain's memory-carrying cells (neurons) from the damaging effects of oxidation and inflammation. Since blueberries are one of the best sources of flavonoids you can find, it's no surprise that this superfood has been shown to help preserve memory function. Blueberries, like other berries, also have a high water content, which makes them hydrating for your skin and other cells of the body. Also try adding Blueberries to your favourite protein powder and mix in a blender for a great tasting shake. Almonds A handfull of almonds is a great snack to have. Almonds are packed with vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber, and are associated with a number of health benefits. Almonds are also a source of vitamin E, copper, magnesium, and high quality protein. There is also study to suggest that almonds can reduce the chances of cancer and heart desease. Allergy to almonds is quite common so make sure you arent allergic before devouring a pack! Hard boiled eggs Hard-boiled eggs are small, compact snack options that easily fit in a cooler or refrigerator. Take them to work or on the road, and eat one when you start feeling hungry. Eggs are complete proteins, which makes them beneficial for muscle building. A single large hard-boiled egg contains about 6.5 grams of protein. Eggs also contain vitamin D. This vitamin is needed for bone strength, especially with older women who are prone to osteoporosis. A large hard-boiled egg contains 10 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin D. If you can get your hands on pastured or Omega-3 enriched eggs, then these are even better. They have more Omega-3s and are much higher in Vitamin A and E You may have heard that eggs are high in cholestorol,  but eating eggs does not have adverse effects on cholesterol in the blood for the majority of people pinapple chunks If you have a sweet tooth, pinapples are a great subsitute to chocolate and sweets. There are many health benefits linked with pinapples. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like pineapples decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart desease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight. As an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C, pineapples can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Increasing potassium intake by consuming high potassium fruits and vegetables can help with lowering blood pressure. Apples Everyone has heard the expression ''an apple a day keeps the doctor away'' and this claim is not unfounded! Research has claimed that eating apples have numerous benefits including reducing the risk of diabetes,reducing the risk of stroke, and lowering cholesterol. They also contain Minerals such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.  Be careful not to eat too many apple seeds, hoewever,  apple seeds contain contain a small amount of cyanide. Good luck with your dieting guys!