Why do you eat a lot before your period and during your period?

Progesterone: Progesterone is highest during this time of the cycle and Progesterone is an appetite stimulant. In fact, persons who are undergoing chemotherapy who lose their appetite, may be sometimes given high dose Progesterone to increase their appetite. I try to 'ignore' those hunger pangs.... And tell myself it's just my ovaries talking so as to avoid weight gain during this time :-).