When young Peter Wells embarks on a field trip with his third-grade class, his problems begin when he hurls insults at a large-sized classmate. In high school, Wells cuts gym classes and rapidly gains weight. His parents and his school counselor send him to a drill sergeant/psychologist who believes that exercise will help cure Wells of his poor eating habits. Wells begins a rigorous and lengthy pilgrimage to lose weight by attending diet meetings with a reluctant brother, by challenging an intolerant corporate world, and by dealing with an overzealous vegetarian hostess during a weekend retreat. He begins a low-carb diet and watches his ailing, overweight father request fast food from his hospital bed. After facing a frightening close call with his own health, Wells begins to question his choices.

In Diet King, Peter Wells must make a life-changing decision-does he want to 'eat to live" or 'live to eat"?