Dr. Jen Ashton’s RX: Foods That Fight Stress and Secrets for Stressed-Out Skin

2. Add 2 Protein-rich Snacks Per Day

When you’re hit with mid-morning or mid-afternoon cravings, you need to fill your tank with good fuel to zap energy lulls. Many people reach for chips or other empty carbs at snack time, but these foods cause energy spikes that result in crashes and fatigue. The key to staying full and regulating your energy level is to make protein part of both your meals and snacks.

Dr. Ashton’s Secret Weapon: Plant-based Protein Powder

Add plant-based protein powders such those made from hemp or flaxseed to shakes and enjoy during mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack time. Create a veggie-based shake with frozen spinach or go sweeter by adding frozen strawberries.

3. The Power of Purple Foods

At every meal, add some purple foods such as plums, eggplants or purple cabbage – all of which are packed with powerful antioxidants that improve your overall health.

Dr. Ashton’s Secret Weapon: Purple Potatoes

Purple potatoes, now more readily available in grocery stores, have been shown to help lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

4. Avoid Packaged Foods

So many of us reach for packaged snack foods when we’re busy or stressed out even though we know they’re not healthy choices. Follow this rule of thumb: If it contains ingredients that you can’t pronounce, don’t eat it.