Many factors influence when we eat, what we eat, and how we eat. Sensory stimulation, such as smelling, seeing, and tasting food, can entice us to eat. Social pressures, including family traditions, social events that involve eating, and busy work schedules, can also influence our diets. Cultural factors also play a role in how we eat. People from Middle Eastern cultures tend to eat more rice, fruits, and vegetables than does the typical American. The Japanese eat more rice .