I'm not a lifter but you might look in to the "super slow" method of lifting weights, rather than your standard "pumping iron" type lifting.
Regarding protein shakes and bars, Locator79 has it correct, usually lots of sugar. You might sort of decide whether you're looking to stay on the so called "balanced diet" or if you'll be going to a "low fat" or the "low carb" type diet. Diet will definitely affect your results.
Atkins shakes on the low carb side of things taste good to me; have you tried them? Other brands did not taste good to me. The 3 flavors that work for me are milk chocolate delight, cafe caramel, mocha latte; they have to be cold, though.
Yes, I was talking to myself; sometimes even I have to ask for expert advice.