Start Losing Weight Without Trying Too Hard

I don't know anyone who enjoys feeling like they are going to explode (from eating too much food).

My cousin and I are going to France in six months. That should be enough time to get in shape, right? We decided we would rather not want to visit Paris looking like the obvious, stereotypical, obese Americans. However, talk is just talk until you actually do something about it.

Instead of continuing our argument over who's going to gain the most weight I have made a few suggestions to jump start our healthier lifestyles. (Notice: these are not rules. Constricting yourself to what you can and cannot do/eat may make a person feel deprived. The point is to subtly change your habits.) Here are a few things to consider:

1. Try not to eat anything at least two hours before you go to bed!
Your body needs to digest the food you eat. By laying down you are disrupting the process which, in return, may reduce your metabolism.
2. After you clean your teeth be lazy!
I don't know about you but for me I tend to not want to eat anything after I brush up. I'm guessing being lazy can contribute to this. So floss, brush, and rinse your teeth and most importantly: be lazy! (This is a win-win suggestion since you would also be promoting pearly whites.)
3. Occupy yourself!
A habit that I have is eating when I am bored. Instead of reaching for some munchies try 20 jump n' jacks, 10 pushups, or holding a plank position for 30 seconds. If all of a sudden you realize you have something better to do then do that! The goal is to not eat something merely because it is in front of you. Now if you're in public and you don't want to embarass yourself it should give you all the more reason to control your boredom eating!
4. Stay hydrated!
For each time you think you are hungry drink a glass of water. Oftentimes we mistake hunger for thirst. Try drinking water then waiting 5-10 minutes. If you are still hungry afterwards go ahead and eat!
5. Try controling your portions!
In America several restaurants offer giant portions. It can be difficult to eat just what you need. Try to imagine your body as a car. Cars do not benefit from too much gas nor does it benefit from running on nothing. Fuel your body right and pay attentiont to how it runs. Try eating smaller portions (as many times as you want) to the point where you are satisfied but not full. Before you know it your rusted body will turn into a smart car! In other words: your body won't need to consume as much food to carry you throughout the day.
6. Sneak in mini excersices!
The gym can sound dreadful to some (most) so why not try moves while doing everyday activites? For instance: when you are sitting in the car, suck in your gut (this will train your muscles), straighten your back, and lift slightly so your back does not touch the seat. Remember to breathe. It will take a little getting used to but in the end you will strengthen your core muscles a little and perfect your posture.

...Have any other suggestions? I'd love to hear them! Feel free to leave a comment!