Studies link ear infections and obesity

Four new studies linking ear infections and obesity were presented at the American Psychological Association meeting in Boston.

Because taste nerves are found near the inner-middle ear, researchers say the damage could alter a child's taste preference to more fatty and sugary foods. Taste nerves are also found in the throat putting children who have had their tonsils removed at risk as well.

Researchers found children with tonsillectomies had a 40 percent higher risk of becoming obese.