ST. JEAN – Fresh off one of the most successful seasons of his distinguished 15-year CFL career, there’s a lot less of Anthony Calvillo at the Alouettes’ training camp.

About 10 pounds less.

The 6-foot-1 veteran, who normally weighs 213 when the season begins, is now closer to 200. And Calvillo believes it’ll make him even better than last season, when he threw 43 touchdowns and was named the league’s most outstanding player.

“I feel a lot stronger in my legs. And I’m faster,” said Calvillo, who will never be confused with Doug Flutie but is a better runner than given credit for. “I’m healthier and should recover from injuries better. Your body takes a beating. It’s not so much the hits as the wear and tear on the muscles and bones.”

Calvillo took a bloodtest over the winter, after complaining about bloating and stomach cramps. The results showed he was intolerant to dairy products and sugar, so he has altered his diet.

Cheese, milk and ice cream have been eliminated. He now drinks rice milk, for example. He has stopped eating processed meats and keeps his consumption of red meat to a minimum, eating chicken instead. Calvillo believes he and his wife, Alexia, eventually will become vegetarians.

He also conducted a new offseason workout program under the guidance of Scott Suter, the Als’ former therapist, which included running on a non-motorized treadmill.

Head coach Marc Trestman said he notices a difference already. “He looks great, re-invigorated and excited. He has that look in his eye, like he’s ready to go.”

Even the man who snaps the ball to Calvillo sees a change. “He looks good and strong,” said centre Bryan Chiu, who underwent his physical at the same time as did Calvillo. “Maybe he can run a 4.4 (over 40 yards) like he claims.”