In response to the question about eating on your menstrual cycle, I've noticed a couple of really important things for me: My menstruation is a time of extreme healing, detoxification, and emotional release. In order to support this week in a healthy way, I eat large quantities of darker meats (like steak or lamb, or organs) as well as a LOT more fat than usual.
Yes, I eat those things completely raw, but even for cooked meat eaters I think this is good advice. Also, I stay away from caffeine, sugars, and anything else that will speed up my metabolism and make me even hungrier!