Final answer:
The amount of brown/beige fat cells in adults has been found to correlate with body leanness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement about brown/beige adipose tissue is:
The amount of brown/beige fat cells in adults has been found to correlate with body leanness.
Brown adipose tissue, also known as brown fat, is more common in infants and is responsible for heat production. In adults, the amount of brown fat decreases, but it is still present mainly in the neck and clavicular regions of the body. Studies have shown that individuals with higher amounts of brown/beige fat cells tend to have a leaner body composition.
Therefore, option (e) is the true statement about brown/beige adipose tissue. Options (a) and (b) are incorrect because the amount and distribution of brown/beige adipose tissue do change over a person's life. Option (c) is incorrect because browning of white adipose tissue usually occurs due to cold exposure, not heat exposure. Option (d) is incorrect because brown/beige adipose tissue contributes minimally to energy balance in most adults.