>> "Supplements are however beneficial to correct and prevent deficiencies as well as address conditions requiring a faster and stronger resolution than diet and lifestyle alone may offer. Like a good bandage though, they may help get the initial healing on track faster, but there comes a time when it is healthiest to take off the bandage and let nature do the rest of the job." <<
well said...
with one caveat... if one supplements, they better have done their homework and understand all known side effects of supplementing; for instance, the creation of another nutritional imbalance or three...
This is where I believe supplements can be a severe problem for those who think that if a little is good, more is better.
RDA only fuels confusion as it is likely based upon supplemental intake, NOT nutritional intake where from high quality foods, the daily amount required can be much less.