Free tool
Can I eat this with Valsartan?
Valsartan can raise potassium levels, and alcohol may worsen side effects like dizziness. Salt substitutes containing potassium need particular care.
Type any food below for an instant verdict — we check 71 foods and drinks for Valsartan (0 to avoid, 70 to take care with) — or tap one below.
Quick answers
- Should I take Valsartan with food?
- Take it at any time of day, with or without food.
- Can I eat salt substitutes with Valsartan?
- Yes, with care. Tell your doctor if you regularly eat salt alternatives containing potassium while taking valsartan.
- Can I drink alcohol with Valsartan?
- Yes, with care. Try not to drink too much as it can cause dizziness, feeling light-headed and dehydration.
- Can I eat bananas with Valsartan?
- Yes, with care. Valsartan can raise potassium levels. Salt substitutes containing potassium may increase this further.
Grounded in the checker below. Not a substitute for your pharmacist.
1 · What do you take?
Valsartan can raise potassium levels, and alcohol may worsen side effects like dizziness. Salt substitutes containing potassium need particular care.
You can generally eat as normal while taking valsartan. Tell your doctor if you regularly eat salt alternatives containing potassium. Try not to drink too much alcohol because it can cause side effects such as dizziness, feeling light-headed and dehydration.
Browse our medication food guides →2 · What do you want to eat or drink?
When to take it: Take it at any time of day, with or without food.
Tap a food to see the answer, or type any food or drink in the box above.
Take care with Valsartan· 70
Fine with Valsartan· 1
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This checker summarises published guidance (NHS medicine pages, patient information leaflets and drug labels) for general information only. It is not medical advice, it is not exhaustive, and it cannot account for your dose, kidney function, other medicines, or health conditions. Always follow your prescriber, pharmacist, or the patient information leaflet — especially before changing what you eat or drink. See our editorial policy.
Further reading on Valsartan
The pages our answers quote. Open “Where this comes from” on any answer to see the exact words, checked 24 September 2026. How we check
NHS website
Valsartan: a medicine for high blood pressure
NHS information about the medicine valsartan, including what it's used for, who can use it, how to use it and side effects.
US FDA drug label
US FDA drug label: Valsartan
The official US prescribing information for Valsartan, including how food, drink and other medicines affect it.
The Journal
Read our medication food guides →
A full Valsartan guide is on its way. Meanwhile, the Journal covers timing, grapefruit, alcohol and more.
Food groups that matter with Valsartan
Every medicine each one affects, on one page.
Medicines with similar food rules
Affected by the same foods as Valsartan.