These spices add a dash of flavor — and health benefits — to any meal. (Mike Garten)

If you suffer from migraines — intense, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light — you know to avoid red wine, MSG and stress. But there are some triggers that are less expected, says Dr. Adelene E. Jann, a neurologist at NYU’s Langone Medical Center. Look out for these unusual suspects:

Specific smells

Another migraine on date night? Those “Not tonight, dear” moments might be due to your special-occasion perfume. “Chemical molecules in perfumes can activate the trigeminal nerve endings to release pain signals in the brain,” said Jann.

Abstain from pain: Figure out lifestyle triggers like fragrances by keeping a diary. “Track your migraines, the foods you ate before onset, the scents you smelled, activities and environmental changes that may have been related,” Dr. Jann said.

Fluctuating hormones

Changes in estrogen affect inflammation, stress and blood sugar, all of which are linked to migraine. “Menopause and the Pill can rapidly lower estrogen,” said ob-gyn Dr. Prudence Hall. “And estrogen levels rise during pregnancy.”

Abstain from pain: Switch to non-hormonal birth control; if your doctor agrees, try bioidentical hormones for menopausal migraines. Your best bet while pregnant? Non-drug TLC – most painkillers are not recommended, though your M.D. may prescribe one.

Orgasms

Yeah, sorry. Strenuous activity like sex and intense orgasms can cause neck and back muscle tension, which can set off migraine. Orgasm also involves the activation of nerves in the central nervous system, which can have the same effect.

Abstain from pain: Build up your arousal slowly, and ask your doctor about a daily preventive medicine and other treatment options that may help protect against migraines caused by moments of bliss.

ON ANOTHER MATTER …

Spice Things Up

New research supports the surprising health benefits of these spice-rack regulars.

Turmeric: Curcumin, a compound in this Indian-cooking mainstay, is linked to reducing oxidative stress on vascular tissues that can increase risk of chronic disease. Use it in veggie stir-fries for a taste of South Asia.

Ginger: The anti-inflammatory compounds in this root are known tummy-soothers, but new research links ginger to boosting satiety, which may lead you to eat less. Add fresh ginger to sauces and dressings for extra kick.

Black pepper: Antioxidants in table salt’s BFF may help protect the cells that line your GI tract, improving gut function. Plus, new research has linked black pepper to helping reduce risk of colon cancer.

Cumin: A chemical compound in this spice appears to protect cell function and has been linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer.

Recalls Alert

The following products and vehicles were recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Unless otherwise indicated, discontinue use of the products immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund. For more information about the products, call the manufacturer or CPSC’s toll-free hotline, (800) 638-2772. Only some cars or trucks recalled are affected. Contact a dealer for your model to see if it is included in the recall. The dealer will tell you what to do.

PRODUCT/VEHICLE

PROBLEM

Target Room Essentials 4-drawer dressers, sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com from January 2013 through April 2016 for about $118.

The recalled dressers are unstable if they are not anchored to the wall, posing serious tip-over and entrapment hazards that can result in death or injuries to children. Target is offering a refund to affected consumers. Consumers can contact Target at (800) 440-0680 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST daily or online at www.Target.com. Click on “Recalls” at the bottom of the page, then “Furniture” for more information, or the “Product Recalls” tab on www.Facebook.com/Target.

Southeast Toyota 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner, equipped with accessory hood scoops installed by SET or SET dealers

The adhesive attaching the hood scoop may weaken, allowing the hood scoop to detach from the vehicle. If the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. SET will notify owners, and dealers will mechanically fasten the scoop to the hood for free. Owners may contact SET customer service at (954) 429-2000. SET’s number for this recall is SET17B.

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Distributed by King Features Syndicate