I am 47 and perimenopausal. I have fibroids too. So, I am using an IUD which has progesterone in it to stop heavy bleeding (sorry for the graphic natures, but I think it's all related).

Hormone tests, thyroid, etc all are within normal ranges. But, I do know that I have always had eating issues around the time of my period.

Lately I've been more regular. But, this week has been tough. And, it's the belly fat which is returning.

I am also very tired. I've been going to bed earlier. My daughter has to leave for school at 7:10 am, so we have to get up rather early.

I keep starting or at least trying each meal to do the right thing. But, when the terrible cravings start, usually afternoon about 2-3 pm, it's tough to keep it all going.

HELP! Any suggestions?

You have the same issues as everyone that is addicted to sugar or has unhealthy habits ingrained in them for 40 years. It isn't possible to just turn them off. But I think you should follow the SP advice when she tells you to follow the plan at every meal even if you end of binging on something later. Just because you binged, do not cut out the good foods you would have eaten because you are trying to cut calories because of the binge. If you keep yourself eating the right foods despite the bad ones, you will begin to crave the bad ones less and less because your body is receiving what it really needs to stop those cravings. Also, I had the same 2-3 tired sugar craving time as you, I started to eat from fruit during the day and always take a 3 o'clock snack with me to work. So make sure you are getting the full amount of the right foods everyday, don 't skip a meal even if you ate a cookie at 2.