Originally Posted by Dr. Smith

Can you provide links for any of these articles? Perhaps someone here can clear up some of the confusion.

How often one takes supplements depends on the body's needs and how you feel.

I take RLA because it eliminates the burning pain. I take it daily else the pain returns, but if I could get away with taking it every other day, I would. My opinion has always been that one should take the lowest dose of something (supplement or prescription) necessary to achieve the desired result.

I'm not sure if "dependent" is the right word to use in this situation, as it has certain connotations medically. E.g. human beings are "dependent" on vitamin C because we (and guinea pigs) are incapable of manufacturing it ourselves; it must come from dietary or supplemental sources. If we don't get enough, we don't exactly experience "withdrawal", though in time we would develop scurvey from having inadequate amounts for healthy functioning.

There are some substances produced in the body which, if supplemented, the body reduces (or in some cases ceases) production of because there is no need. In many cases, when supplementation ceases, natural production resumes, but in some cases, when supplementation occurs long term, the body may cease production entirely. I couldn't tell you the specific substances or time intervals; that might be a question for your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation and what you're taking.

Some medical conditions also reduce production of certain necessary substances, which must be supplemented for life, e.g. diabetes, hypothyroidism, et al.

Doc