BACKGROUND: Insects like OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the effects of METHODS: Using the hemoglobin depletion/repletion method, 32 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: A (standard diet + ferrous sulfate), B (diet + RESULTS: Food intake, weight gain, and bioavailability measures showed no differences. However, the Gryllus + soy group showed higher weekly and final hemoglobin levels than Gryllus alone. This combination also improved acetic acid levels, fecal moisture, and oxidative balance, increasing superoxide dismutase activity while reducing peroxidation products compared to Gryllus alone. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the potential benefits of combining