How does the body primarily store excess carbohydrates?

The body primarily stores excess carbohydrates as glycogen in muscles and the liver. When carbohydrates are consumed, they are broken down into glucose, which circulates in the bloodstream and is used for immediate energy needs. However, once the immediate energy requirements are satisfied, the body converts the surplus glucose into glycogen through a process called glycogenesis.

Glycogen is a polysaccharide that serves as a readily available energy reserve. The muscles store glycogen for use during physical activities, providing quick energy during exercise. The liver, on the other hand, stores glycogen and can release glucose into the bloodstream as needed to maintain blood sugar levels, especially between meals or during fasting.

This storage method is efficient because glycogen can be broken down rapidly into glucose when the body needs energy. While excess carbohydrates can ultimately be converted to fat for storage in adipose tissue if glycogen stores are full, glycogen is the primary storage form for immediate access, thereby making it the correct answer regarding how the body stores excess carbohydrates.

The other options focus on alternative storage mechanisms that are not the primary method for excess carbohydrate storage under normal dietary conditions.