Final answer:
Excess carbohydrates are converted to fat through a process called de novo lipogenesis, resulting in triglycerides stored in adipose tissue for later use. Controlling intake and exercise helps manage this process and overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for where excess carbohydrates are converted to fat and stored in the adipose tissue is de novo lipogenesis. When the body has more glucose than it needs for immediate energy, the liver uses excess glucose and ATP to create glycogen.
Once glycogen stores are full, pyruvate produced during glycolysis begins the process of creating fatty acids. These fatty acids are then converted into triglycerides and stored in adipose cells, the fat cells whose primary role is to store fat for later use.
Notably, if energy is not exerted shortly after eating, these processes result in the accumulation of body fat which, when chronic, can lead to health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Thus, controlling dietary intake and maintaining regular exercise are key in managing body fat and overall health.