Children with a history of moderate to severe ear infections may be more likely to be obese later in life, according to a new study presented to the American Chemical Society.

The lead researcher said that ear infections can damage a nerve that runs through the ear that controls taste. The damage can make a desire for fatty or high-calorie foods strong, said Linda Bartoshuk, of the University of Florida.

The conclusion was based on data from 245 patients over age 30 who had a history of ear infections and more than 1,000 who hadn't had the problem.

The people were questioned about their food preferences. Those who had problems with their ears were more likely to report and intense preference for fatty foods, according to a news release about the work.

They were also twice as likely to be obese.

Bartoshuk emphasized that the findings are preliminary.