Re: Minerals
I agree it is about cartilege, but I think the solution is copper, which is required for cross-linking of collagen (via lysl oxidase). To get an idea how to supplement it, check this study:
Copper and zinc are both catalysts for the production of collagen and elastin. But they are only needed in trace amounts for this process. These proteins are made up of lysine, hydroxylysine, proline, hydroxyproline, glycine, vitamin C and silica. The amino acids are common in the diet. Vitamin C and particularly silica are what tend to be the most common deficiencies leading to the loss of collagen and elastin.
Is there some joint problem I did not read enough posts to know about - such as RA? If this is due to some form of arthritis, this guy has lots and lots of info for you:
RA is a bacterial induced autoimmune condition. I don't see how potassium would be an actual cure, but I can see where it would help a lot with the inflammation in large part due to its moving the excess fluid out of the tissues.