yes i believe so. with nitrates we use them as a easy test for total dissolved solids. this is where the real problem lies. also when you are water changing your replacing trace minerals into the tank. all my planted tanks i still water change.
side note is there is a train of thought. westland ? did i get the spelling right type of natural set up. low stocking lots of plants and just top offs. i personally dont believe in it. there sure isnt harm doing water changes.