Purpose: This study examined the psychological determinants of millet consumption behavior among individuals with diabetes in urban Kerala. Although millets are known for their nutritional benefits in diabetes management, their consumption remains low among patients with diabetes. The study researched the effects of attitudinal, social, and control-related factors on consumption intention and actual behavior.

Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed. Data were collected from diabetic patients in urban Kerala using a structured questionnaire. Of 300 questionnaires distributed, 258 valid responses were retained for analysis. Attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were predictors, while consumption intention and actual behavior were outcomes. Data were analyzed with partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings: The results indicated that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control significantly influenced consumption intention. Consumption intention, in turn, significantly affected actual millet consumption behavior and mediated the relationships between psychological determinants and behavior, highlighting its central role in dietary decision-making among diabetic patients. Practical

Implications: The results indicated that nutrition awareness, social support systems, and improved access to millet-based foods should be prioritized by healthcare professionals, policymakers, and food system stakeholders to promote healthier dietary practices and better diabetes management.

Originality: Unlike prior studies that primarily emphasized the nutritional or biomedical benefits of millets, this research provided behavioral insights by empirically examining the psychological determinants of millet consumption.

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