Marlon Byrd has dropped 40 pounds this winter through a dramatic change in his diet and a martial arts regimen called Muay Thai. Byrd saw nutritionist Robert Pastore in New York and made changes in his diet after it was determined that he's allergic to milk and wheat. Coupled with his use of Muay Thai, the 34-year-old now weighs 215 pounds after tipping the scales at 255 pounds at the end of last season. "The fat started melting away," said Byrd. "No more bloating, no more food sensitivities. My body just kicked into high gear and I was able to keep it revved up." Byrd is set to earn $6.5 million in 2012 before becoming a free agent next offseason. With top prospect Brett Jackson not far away from the big leagues, the veteran center fielder figures to be the subject of trade talks for the rebuilding Cubs.