This cycle is necessary for producing a molecule called glutathione. Glutathione protects cells from damage caused by unstable oxygen-containing molecules, which are byproducts of energy production. Glutathione is called an antioxidant because of its role in protecting cells from the damaging effects of these unstable molecules which are byproducts of energy production.
This cycle is essential for synthesizing glutathione. Glutathione serves as a protective agent for cells, shielding them against damage caused by unstable oxygen-containing molecules that are byproducts of energy production. As a result, glutathione is classified as an antioxidant due to its role in safeguarding cells from the adverse effects of these unstable molecules.