Got a soft spot for sweets? Then we've got some good news for you . . .

Not all types of sweeteners are nutritional black holes. In fact, quite a few give you more than just a sugar buzz. They provide a small dose of antioxidants.

Fewer Empty Calories
In a study, researchers measured the antioxidant content of refined sugar, corn syrup, and a variety of natural sweeteners. Two types of molasses—blackstrap, and a kind called dark—were the most antioxidant-rich. Brown rice syrup and barley malt syrup were next, followed by pure maple syrup. Honey, they found, had about the same amount of antioxidants as raw sugar. But both had more than white refined sugar. Bottom line: Just as with whole grains, the less refined your sugar, the better.

Sweet Swappin'
Researchers estimate that swapping out an entire day's worth of refined sugar with a more antioxidant-rich alternative could add about a cup of blueberries' worth of antioxidants to a person's day. But that's because most people eat a ton of sugar—about 130 grams a day! Your best bet: Cut back on the sweet stuff.