aggression from EP (low content)

[papawawa]

This is just a general question. I find myself in this situation frequently:
Party $25NL 6 Max, it's heads up or three way with no preflop raises. I'm in EP with middle pair, or TPBK and I bet the flop, LP1 calls LP2 folds. Seeming blank hits not improving my hand, but potentially improving his. I check/bet, get raised the pot and fold the best hand. I was schooled twice by a guy who blatantly showed his rags after I folded the winner on the turn. What kinds of things should I be looking for to prevent being outplayed in this spot? What types of strategies can counter LP bluffs? All input greatly appreciated.