Final answer:
Excess energy from food is stored as fat in adipose tissue, as well as glycogen in liver and muscle cells. Chronic accumulation of fat due to an imbalance in calorie intake and expenditure can lead to weight gain and obesity, which is associated with various health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
When food is consumed, any excess energy is stored as fat primarily in the adipose tissue. Excess glucose can be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells, but once these stores are full, additional glucose is turned into fatty acids. These fatty acids are then stored in the adipose tissue's fat cells, ready to be used when the body requires more energy. This mechanism is essential to maintain energy balance and ensure that our organs, especially the brain, have a continuous supply of energy. However, chronic accumulation of excess fat due to an imbalance in calorie intake and expenditure may lead to weight gain and an increased risk of obesity, with associated health risks such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
The process of storing excess dietary fat as triglycerides in adipose tissues affects body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. An individual's BMI can indicate whether they are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to manage body weight and prevent obesity, which is a major health concern in many societies today.