Karen, I was so absorbed by contractions that I didn't want to eat or drink. My support people, one of whom is a midwife, told me to drink because otherwise the labour would slow down. To keep everything progressing, it's important to have something, even if you don't feel like it.
Tiff (my support) also told me that sucking on a lolly tricks your body into thinking you have nourishment because the sugar is so quickly absorbed, so they are a good option if you don't feel like eating. Peppermint lollies were good for nausea, which I felt throughout my labour. HTH and all the best for your birthing experience!