Hot Water Recirc Pump with Water Softener?

I called a plumber to the house for a problem with my hot water supply. While he was looking at my system, he pointed out that because I have a water softener system AND a recirculating hot water pump, I should drain my water heater every six months...he then paused, thought through it and said nevermind...don't do that. It didn't give me much confidence so I thought I would ask a wider audience if there are any concerns or special considerations from a maintenance perspective in this scenario.