Tadgola (Ice Apple): Nature’s Seasonal Superfood for Pregnancy Wellness

By Dr. Nutan Pakhare

Nature provides exactly what the body needs—at the right time, for the right age, and in the right season.

This timeless Ayurvedic wisdom perfectly aligns with the arrival of Tadgola, also known as Ice Apple or Nungu in Southern India. With its soft jelly-like texture, mildly sweet flavor, and cooling effect, this humble fruit is more than just a summer treat. It’s a functional food with significant nutritional and therapeutic value, especially for women during the preconception and pregnancy phase.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how Tadgola supports maternal health from both Ayurvedic and scientific perspectives, backed by modern research and ancient seasonal wisdom.

Ice apple in pregnancy

What is Tadgola (Ice Apple) ?

Tadgola is the fruit of the Borassus flabellifer, or Palmyra palm, a tree widely grown across tropical regions of India and Southeast Asia. Each fruit contains translucent, jelly-like segments encased in a fibrous husk. It is naturally low in calories, rich in water content, and packed with micronutrients.

Ayurvedic Insight: Tadgola is categorised as a Sheetala (cooling), Snigdha (moistening), and Madhura (sweet) food in Ayurveda. It is especially balancing for Pitta dosha and beneficial in Grishma Rutu (summer season) when heat-related imbalances are common.

7 Benefits of Tadgola (Ice Apple) In Pregnancy

 

1. Nutrient-Rich Superfood for Every Stage

From a scientific standpoint, Tadgola is an excellent source of vitamins and essential minerals:

  • Vitamins: C, A, E, K, B7 (Biotin)
  • Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus, Potassium
  • Other Nutrients: Fiber, Phytonutrients, and natural sugars

According to the USDA and regional nutrition studies, these nutrients play a vital role in supporting maternal health, fetal development, and overall well-being.

Clinical Relevance:

  • Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, essential for skin elasticity during pregnancy.
  • Calcium is essential for fetal skeletal development and maternal bone health.
  • Iron helps prevent anaemia, a common concern during pregnancy.
  • Biotin (B7) is involved in cellular metabolism and healthy fetal growth.

2. Supports Fetal Bone and Brain Development

One of the standout benefits of Tadgola is its calcium content. A single serving can provide up to 8–10% of the daily requirement, depending on the size and freshness of the fruit.

  • Scientific Evidence: Calcium intake during pregnancy is directly associated with improved bone mineralisation in fetuses, as shown in a 2017 study published in Nutrients.
  • Antioxidants in Tadgola help protect developing brain tissues from oxidative stress—a crucial factor in neurodevelopmental health.

Ayurvedic Context: Calcium-rich, cooling, and nourishing foods are recommended during Garbhasanskar, particularly in the second and third trimesters, for optimal skeletal and neural development.

3. Promotes Healthy Digestion and Metabolism

Pregnancy can often bring about digestive disturbances, such as constipation and bloating. The natural fiber content in Tadgola can help regulate bowel movements and support a healthy gut microbiome.

  • According to a 2021 review in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, dietary fiber improves digestion, promotes satiety, and reduces glycemic load—making it ideal for women with Gestational diabetes risk.
  • Tadgola is also alkaline, which helps balance excess stomach acidity—common in Pitta-aggravated conditions during pregnancy.

4. Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Tadgola is composed of over 87% water, making it a highly hydrating fruit, especially vital in hot climates.

  • Dehydration in pregnancy can lead to complications like fatigue, urinary tract infections, and even preterm labor.
  • The natural electrolyte composition of Tadgola—containing potassium and sodium—helps maintain osmotic balance, preventing swelling and cramps.

Seasonal Relevance: Ayurveda emphasises Ritucharya—adapting lifestyle and diet based on seasons. Tadgola, being naturally cooling and hydrating, is a perfect fit for Grishma Ritu, offering relief from heat exhaustion and dehydration.

5. Boosts Immunity for Mother and Baby

Pregnancy requires a balanced immune system—not too reactive, yet strong enough to protect both the mother and the fetus. Tadgola’s Vitamin A, C, and phytonutrients offer antiviral and antibacterial support.

  • Research from Frontiers in Immunology confirms that vitamin C enhances maternal immunity and reduces inflammation.
  • The antioxidant profile of Tadgola reduces oxidative stress, which has been linked to miscarriage and preeclampsia in clinical studies.

6. May Alleviate Morning Sickness and Nausea

The soothing texture and cooling effect of Tadgola can help manage early pregnancy nausea.

  • It contains natural sugars that replenish energy levels.
  • Its low glycemic index ensures that sugar levels don’t spike abruptly.
  • The sweet and hydrating nature can help women with aversions to strong smells or flavors.

7. Prevents Gestational Diabetes (Potential Benefit)

The soluble fiber in Tadgola, combined with its low-calorie and low-glycemic index (GI) nature, makes it a safe snack option for women with insulin sensitivity.

  • A study published in Diabetes Care (2018) suggests that low-GI fruits can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and support better glucose control.
  • Flavonoids present in Tadgola may play a role in modulating insulin response.

Note: While it offers preventive support, individuals already diagnosed with gestational diabetes should consult their doctor before adding fruit to their diet regularly.

How to Eat Tadgola? Tips for Safe Consumption

  • Select fresh, firm, and translucent segments that are free from mold or discoloration.
  • Avoid overripe ones, which can ferment quickly.
  • Best consumed in the morning or early afternoon when digestion is most potent.
  • Pair it with cardamom or fennel to aid digestion and enhance flavour.
  • Always eat it at room temperature or slightly cool—avoid chilling it too much to preserve digestive fire (Agni).

Conclusion: Eat Local, Seasonal, and Mindfully

In Ayurveda, Ahara (diet) is considered one of the key pillars of health. Seasonal fruits like Tadgola are not just gifts of nature, but tailored nourishment crafted for your health stage, season, and body constitution.

As a Garbhasanskar coach and Ayurveda expert, I encourage all women to tune in to nature’s rhythm. Embrace seasonal superfoods like Tadgola in moderation and witness the harmony they bring to your body and mind.

Let your food be your seasonal medicine. Let nature guide your fertility, pregnancy, and parenting journey.