The health benefits of grapefruit, plus our best recipes

Grapefruit is loaded with vitamin C, supporting heart health, immunity, even collagen production, to ensure a youthful looking complexion. Just one half, sliced over spinach salad, eaten straight out of the rind with a spoon, or even stirred into a cocktail (grapefruit-mint mojito, anyone?) provides about 50 percent of your recommended daily intake of C.

But, you don’t even have to eat grapefruit to reap some of its most amazing benefits. The mere smell of citrus can curb stress and relieve depression. Grapefruit essential oils can be used in a diffuser or combined with a carrier-oil for use in an uplifting aromatherapy massage. Plus research from Osaka University in Japan suggests that a whiff of grapefruit can boost metabolism and reduce food cravings.

* Note: Grapefruit increases the potency of some prescription drugs, so talk to your doctor about whether they’re OK for you to eat.

Our best healthy grapefruit recipes

Roasted Sweet Potato and Grapefruit Salad

Fresh Trout and Grapefruit Segments

Whole-Wheat Grapefruit Bran Biscotti

Grapefruit-Glazed Bran Muffins

Seared Sea Scallops & Grapefruit Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette

Pork Chops with Ruby Grapefruit & Watercress

Baked Salmon with Citrus Salad