Mic the Vegan ranked 12 common sugars from least healthy to healthiest using a scoring system called the "sugarithm." Factors such as glycemic index, antioxidant content, and documented health effects were considered in the ranking. Highly refined syrups and sugars like brown rice syrup, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup ranked the lowest due to their high glycemic index scores and lack of antioxidants.

In the middle group were sweeteners like brown sugar, fruit juice concentrates, and maple syrup, which showed slight improvements in antioxidant levels but were still refined sources of sugar. Coconut sugar, molasses, and date sugar stood out as the top three sweeteners due to their additional nutrients or bioactive compounds. Date sugar, made from ground whole dates, ranked the highest for its fiber, phytochemicals, and lower glycemic index compared to other sweeteners. Despite the ranking, Mic emphasized that most sugars should be minimized in everyday eating, with whole-food options like dates being the least harmful way to add sweetness.