Creator - loss of data after editing pick list

Creator - loss of data after editing pick list

I created a database with a pick-list field. As I entered data, I would think of new things to add to the pick list, so I would edit the pick list to add more options. When I return to the database, I find that the fields that used the pick list are now empty. This is a serious problem; it means I have to re-enter all data in that field if I ever edit the pick list. Is there a fix or workaround?
b_hagerty